One of the greatest pianists of our time, Murray Perahia's long, glorious career has produced both brilliant recordings and breathtaking live performances. He plays with great passion, without becoming bombastic. He is elegant while remaining surefooted. And he picks his repertoire well, playing to his strengths while continuing to challenge himself.

This critically-acclaimed recording of the Chopin Études is a good example of the balance between finesse and control which epitomizes Perahia's playing. This month I offer perhaps the most well-known étude of them all, the "Black Keys."