If I were to ask you who your favourite composer is, you’d probably not find it too tricky to name someone. Chopin, Mozart or Beethoven are popular names. This is great.
However, if I were to ask who you look up to in terms of pianists, you might have to think a little harder.
Many times in the past I’ve mentioned Daniil Trifinov. A Russian pianist and composer who has an incredible ear and an extremely high level of technique. He’s at that level where technical capablities aren’t his limitation. I’m different. There is loads of repertoire I’d love to play but simply couldn’t. I’m fine with this because I can always strive to be better.
Daniil isn’t the only player out there obviously. If fast and ingirating piano playing is your thing then Yuja Wang is a must. If you love Bach then you should listen to Glen Gould. For Beethoven you couldn’t go wrong with Daniel Barenboim.
Like every other type of music, you don’t have to like the music that the pianist plays in order to appreciate what they do. For example, Mitsuko Uchida is an incredible player but she doesn’t always play repertoire I enjoy.
Finding someone you find inspirational is great. Aspiring to move toward their level gives drive which leads to momentum and improves the learning experience.
