Grigory Sokolov is a rightful heir of the” piano throne” previously occupied by his mentor Emil Gilels. He is very famous in Europe, where most of his performances have been held regularly. He has been to the USA with concert tour right after winning the 3rd Tchaikovsky competition at 16. He met Van Clibourn then. He was in the USA only one more time several years later. Since then he has not been willing to come again. Whatever happened then, prevents him to come. As his friend I heard much about his first visit and his meeting with Van. But being very reserved otherwise, I only could sense, something bothered him after his second visit. I wouldn’t dare to ask, about it. Soon after that I left StPetersburg for the USA and he moved to Italy.

I am an unashamed champion of Richter’s, shall we say controversial, interpretation of this wonderful sonata. I’ve listened to countless other ‘conventional’ interpretations and none move me, or engage me, in the manner Richter’s does. But your comments struck a chord - and so does this worthy and fascinating reading - quite different in tone, and of course speed, to Richter, yet in terms of musical quality and understanding, in many respects, comparable. Thanks for your input.

Weird way to spell Richter

On the same level: Arcadi Volodos

Richter way above everyone in Schubert.

Se trata de la escuela rusa de piano. Arrau es un pianista alemán y Richter, ruso, es "sui generis". Greetins from Chile.

interesting observation

pretentious non-statement

I don't agree that Peter's observation is a non statement nor one bit pretentious. Sokolov would seem to make a point of intensity in many pieces, thus his interpretation or feeling of what is profundity. Such are the nuances of any performers "interpretation." And this is a site for all to attempt insight. Perhaps your perspective of pretentiousness is itself a bit pretentious? But it's the enjoyment of the music that's important, ne c'est pas?

As well, comparing to Richter, the guy with the big, heavy hands, his version of 894, www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5101817/America-s-iron-lungs.html#ixzz4z1Z5I0xF, is by one listener's opinion too "slow" but imo compared to some of his banging passages in Beethoven it is very sensitive

I believe what you call "intensity" I call "clarity". Clarity is the hallmark of a Sokolov performance.