The 2005 compilation
The Very Best of Chopin draws on Turkish pianist
Idil Biret's prize-winning recordings of the complete solo piano works and concertos of
Frédéric Chopin for the Naxos label done in the 1990s.
Biret's affinity for
Chopin won her high honors in
Chopin's homeland. What's included here are the most beloved of
Chopin's works, played with thorough musicianship by
Biret, from the flowing Barcarolle to the patriotism of the "Héroic" Polonaise, Op. 53. Her sensitive phrasing and touch highlight the slow movements of the piano concertos. Also, fitting in nicely with
Biret's perceptive interpretations and another of
Chopin's lyrical treasures is the Largo from the Cello Sonata, Op. 65, performed by
Maria Kliegel and
Bernd Glemser. All in all, this album is a great choice for an introduction to the music of
Chopin.