Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli (1920-1995)

A mesmerising moment from Brahms, Ballade No. 4 Op. 10 in B major, Andante con moto: Lugano 1981.  The pianist's hands - feather-like in delicacy - seem barely to press down the keys, while the vibrating inner melody is brought to the fore, Michelangeli all the while savouring the delicious, glinting clashes of harmony.

On 5 February 1941, L'Avvenire   d'Italia  reported on a recital in the Liceo Musicale, Bologna: 'Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli undoubtedly possesses a privileged nature. In him, virtuosity blends with temperament and the refinement of an acute and remarkably responsive sensitivity. His technique is extremely solid, rational, logical, complete, and constructive; governed by an inner control that elevates it to artistic thought and will. His sound can be, depending on the case