Yundi Li's 2015 release of
Chopin's Préludes on Deutsche Grammophon launches his
Chopin Project, which consists of recordings and performances devoted to the works of the Polish master. It might seem that
Yundi's career has been dominated by
Chopin's music since he won the first prize at the International Fryderyk Chopin Competition in 2000, and he has periodically released recordings of
Chopin's music, including the Nocturnes, Scherzi, Impromptus, and other pieces. With the 24 Préludes, Op. 28, the Prélude in C sharp minor, Op. 45, and the Prélude in A flat major, Op. Posth.,
Yundi keeps his expressions close to the vest and treats the music with calm introspection, in a manner
Chopin likely would have approved, avoiding excessive displays of technique and rejecting sentimentality. For that reason, this album might seem a little subdued, cool, and even clinical by most pianists' standards, and somewhat lacking in the showmanship that is usually expected of a young virtuoso. But it seems more likely a sign of
Yundi's growth and seriousness that he plays with restraint and control when he is expected to show off, and puts
Chopin's music well above the hype. Highly recommended.