Ivo Pogorelich, Klavier

He is one of the last eccentrics to be found at the piano. He takes complete liberties with tempo, playing both slowly and quickly, building up and sustaining tension. Although he himself does not regard his extremely reflective piano playing as provocative, Ivo Pogorelich polarises opinion. He says that he has to 'do justice to the composers'. I have to be respectful towards them. To do that, I have to find that golden line. I have to look inside myself and try to feel their inspiration. Then I interpret them on the piano.” Pogorelich is not only one of the most interesting pianists around, he also makes himself scarce on the international stage. The unconventional Croatian last performed at the Alte Oper a quarter of a century ago.