\“Maria Joao Pires has enjoyed a lifelong association with the music of Chopin. The refinement of her touch and the sense of empathy she brings to his works are among the many qualities that have built her enviable reputation in this repertoire. When she gave a late-night BBC Promenade Concert devoted to the composers Nocturnes at the Royal Albert Hall, London, in 2010, the rapt atmosphere and rave reviews only confirmed her status as one of the best-loved Chopin pianists of our time.

All of this suits Pires selfless, collegial type of music-making to the core. In these performances there is no mistaking her sensitivity of touch at the keyboard, but in addition her interaction with each conductor and orchestra is characterized by quick responses, a sense of conversational exchange and the careful balance of sound between solo instrument and larger ensemble. Chopins poetry and depth of emotion shine out of her playing, together with an innate identification with the composers mingled poise and intensity, expressiveness and introversion.\” – Jessica Duchen

\“Her musicianship is (as we have come to expect) wonderfully natural, with a voice of eloquent directness and purity.\” –Gramophone, 1999 (on No.?1)

\“What gloriously imposing breadth as well as knife-edged clarity Pires brings to each phrase and note - you will gasp at such pianism and originality.\” –Gramophone, 1995 (on No.?2)