Chopin: The Complete Etudes – Aaron Pilsan

Pianist Aaron Pilsan had two dreams in life: to record both books of Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier and Chopin’s Études. These dreams have come true, as the Bach recordings have been released (Alpha 669 & 1034), and he now presents his recording of the Études Op. 10 and Op. 25, as well as the three posthumous Études – thus the complete set of Chopin’s Études.

According to Pilsan, “Bach reveals the polyphonic nature of Chopin. By playing Bach, I have sharpened my awareness of the multiple inner voices in Chopin, especially the left hand as a harmonic and rhythmic foundation, transforming Chopin into something architecturally rich.” The Austrian pianist distinguishes between the two cycles: Op. 10 is “direct, brilliant, and passionate, almost explosive”, while Op. 25 is “more refined and introspective”. He concludes: “Chopin used them pedagogically, but they are also profound artistic works, combining technical development with a wide emotional range.”