David Fray Essentials

Respect for Bach's genius can tempt interpreters into overly worshipful postures. While there's nothing wrong with reverence—or historically informed performances—it can also be a thrill to hear a talented player put a new charge into the music. This young French pianist has a bit of Glenn Gould's abandon, though with fewer mannerisms (and perhaps a more consistent sense of fun). Fray's inventive touch isn't restricted to Bach, either; you can (and should) hear his excursions into Schubert and (gasp!) the avant-gardisms of his countryman Boulez.