10 Best Piano Players of all time

In the world of music, few instruments are as versatile and captivating as the piano. From the classical grandeur of Beethoven to the modern marvels of Jon Batiste, the piano has been the canvas for some of the most remarkable musical performances in history. In this 2023 update, we’ll delve into the top 10 piano players who have left an indelible mark on the world of music. While determining the order of these virtuosos can be a matter of personal preference, their contributions to the art of piano playing are undeniable.

Table of Contents

The Art of Ranking

Ranking these pianists is not an exact science, as individual preferences and criteria can greatly influence the order. While we acknowledge the subjectivity of this task, we have considered factors like technical prowess, creativity, influence, and the ability to connect with audiences. It’s not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about creating an emotional connection through the ivory keys.

The Top 10 Piano Players in the World (2023 Update)

10. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a name synonymous with classical music. His early start as a child prodigy paved the way for a career that would forever alter the course of music history. Mozart’s compositions are celebrated for their elegance and emotional depth. But he was not just a composer; Mozart was a virtuoso pianist and conductor, a true maestro of his time. His piano concertos remain masterpieces that showcase both technical brilliance and emotional resonance.

Fun Fact: Mozart’s association with the Freemasons and his friendship with composer Antonio Salieri have added layers of intrigue to his life and legacy.

9. Dame Myra Hess

Dame Myra Hess, our 9th pick, stands out for her unique rhythmic interpretations. Throughout her career, she fearlessly took the spotlight, drawing influence from prominent pianists such as Clive Lythgoe and the Contiguglia brothers. Hess is best known for her enchanting renditions of Mozart symphonies, which have earned her a place among the greats. Her impact extended to mentoring jazz musicians, including Elizabeth Ivey Brubeck. The Chicago Cultural Center honors her contributions with the Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concerts, a tradition since 1977.

Fun Fact: Arthur Bax dedicated a piece to her after she wowed the audience with her interpretation of Beethoven’s 3rd symphony at a performance invited by conductor Arthur Toscanini.

8. Claudio Arrau

Claudio Arrau is unmistakable when you hear him play. His unique, orchestral-like tone sets him apart in the world of pianists. Fellow musicians often marveled at Arrau’s distinct sound, which he achieved through spellbinding dedication. He was not one to strictly adhere to the script, infusing his personal touch into every piece he played. Arrau’s passion for the piano persisted throughout his life, drawing massive crowds until his final performance. His legacy includes learning and recording piano concertos from the greats of the past.

Fun Fact: Arrau was so dedicated to his music that he wouldn’t leave his piano even for a meal unless it was brought to him.

7. Vladimir Ashkenazy

Vladimir Ashkenazy hails from a family of musicians, and his early initiation into piano playing set the stage for a brilliant career. He rose to fame in the 1950s, winning prestigious piano prizes, including the Queen Elisabeth Music Competition in Belgium in 1956. Ashkenazy’s repertoire spanned from Rachmaninov to Beethoven, and his performances were hailed worldwide. In the latter part of his career, he transitioned into conducting, achieving equal acclaim.

Fun Fact: While performing in the West, Ashkenazy faced constant pressure from the KGB to act as an informer.

6. Murray Perahia

Our 6th pick, Murray Perahia, is not only an exceptional pianist but also a revered teacher and instructor. Known for his interpretations of Mozart and Beethoven, Perahia’s recordings with Sony Classical are legendary. However, what truly sets him apart is his dedication to sharing his knowledge. He taught at prestigious institutions like the Juilliard School and the Peabody Institute, leaving an indelible mark on aspiring pianists. Perahia’s awards and medals are numerous, including three Grammy Awards and having a bee species named after him in 2016.

Fun Fact: Perahia won three Grammy Awards after being nominated eighteen times.

5. Arthur Rubinstein

Arthur Rubinstein was a giant in the world of piano. His career began in the early 20th century, where he rubbed shoulders with composers like Maurice Ravel and Paul Dukas. Rubinstein’s devotion to Chopin made him a premier Chopinist, leaving an enduring legacy in the music industry. His global tours, including South America and Spain, garnered praise and admiration. Rubinstein’s solo performances were iconic, but he also collaborated with other eminent musicians, creating magical moments in the world of music.

Fun Fact: A documentary film titled “Arthur Rubenstein – The Love of Life” about his life earned an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

4. Alfred Brendel

Alfred Brendel is celebrated for his exquisite interpretations of Beethoven, Haydn, Schubert, and Mozart. Self-taught and deeply passionate about the piano from an early age, Brendel’s raw skill propelled him to the pinnacle of piano playing. He emphasized the importance of adhering to composers’ intentions, earning respect for his commitment to their works. His renditions of classical pieces influenced a new generation of pianists, and his accolades include being an Honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

Fun Fact: Brendel’s self-taught approach was rooted in his belief that self-discovery was essential to his musical development.

3. Ludwig van Beethoven

Ludwig van Beethoven is an icon in the world of classical music. A virtuoso pianist and a master of various formats and styles, including symphonies and concertos, Beethoven’s music is known for its emotional depth and technical innovation. He pioneered the Romantic style, emphasizing individual expression and emotion in music. Despite personal and professional challenges, including hearing loss and financial struggles, Beethoven persevered, creating some of the greatest music ever written.

Fun Fact: Beethoven started losing his hearing by the age of 30 but continued to compose some of his most famous works, including his Ninth Symphony and his Missa solemnis.

2. Leif Ove Andsnes

Leif Ove Andsnes is a modern piano virtuoso known for his unique artistic approach. His captivating performances of Edvard Grieg’s works have earned him acclaim at prestigious concert halls worldwide. Andsnes is not only a virtuoso pianist but also the founding director of Norway’s Rosendal Chamber Music Festival. His ability to breathe life into the piano keys, as evidenced by his magisterial elegance, power, and insight, has solidified his place among the greats.

Fun Fact: Leif Ove Andsnes was Music Director for the 2012 Ojai Music Festival.

1. Martha Argerich

Taking the top spot in our list of piano virtuosos in 2023 is Martha Argerich, the enigmatic Argentine pianist. Argerich’s unparalleled technique, combined with her emotional depth and electrifying stage presence, make her a true master of the piano. Her interpretations of composers like Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev, and Liszt are celebrated for their passion and brilliance. Argerich’s recordings continue to inspire pianists and music enthusiasts worldwide. Her ability to convey profound emotions through her performances cements her legacy as the foremost piano virtuoso of our time.

Fun Fact: Martha Argerich won the prestigious Tchaikovsky Piano Competition in 1965, launching her international career.

Honorable Mentions

While our top 10 list showcases some of the most remarkable pianists in history, many other gifted pianists have made invaluable contributions to the world of music. Honorable mentions include Sergei Rachmaninoff, Sergei Prokofiev, Glenn Gould, Evgeny Kissin, and Krystian Zimerman, among others.

In conclusion, the art of piano playing continues to evolve, with modern virtuosos like Leif Ove Andsnes and Martha Argerich carrying the torch forward. Whether you’re captivated by the classical elegance of Mozart or the contemporary brilliance of Andsnes and Argerich, the world of piano music offers a rich and diverse tapestry of talent to explore and enjoy.