Krystian Zimerman

Attended Zimerman's recital on Sunday evening. I have been waiting for the past three years for his return - his visit in 2003 was cancelled due to SARS.

Zimerman is the kind of pianist that you would sacrifice any gathering to attend his concert. His playing is highly intellectual. The Mozart Sonata was not something he is famour for, but he played it so well that it is one of the most impressive Mozart Sonatas I have heard live. The Gershwin and the Ravel were also inspiring.

The Chopin in the second half - the Mazurka and Sonata No.3 were very well presented. He played it poetically with intellectual depth. Needless to say, you can hardly find any wrong note from his playing.

I heard that he doesn't give encore. But he did give us two encores - Chopin's Ballade No.4, and another 20th century piece. I was overwhelmed by his playing. What could be more satisfying than attending a concert with such a high quality music for two and a half hours!

One more thing: He brought his own piano, which sounded a little different from the usual one in the Cultural Centre.