Krystian Zimerman is a classical pianist from Zabrze, Poland who is widely considered to be one of the finest pianists living today. Having developed a lifelong affinity with the works and life of Polish pianist and composer Frederick Chopin, much of Zimerman's most celebrated performances and recordings are those that highlight the works of the 19th Century classical music icon. In 1975, Zimerman joined the short list of legendary pianists to earn first prize at the International Frederick Chopin Piano Competition, earning him widespread international fame and recognition as a result. Despite the pianist's fame being mostly tied to his performances of Chopin's works, Zimerman is also known for his wide-ranging and varied interpretations of piano music from the Romantic era, with several recordings of various composers that stand as benchmarks by which many contemporary pianists strive for.
