The Nocturnes
Claudio Arrau
Philips 416 440 (2 CDs)

For me, Claudio Arrau has always been one of the greatest artists and one from whom I have able to learn the most. I have always been captured by his natural manner of expression in all his albums, but especially in these two Chopin CDs, which, when I am alone, evoke feelings in me which are probably suppressed in everyday life.

BACH

Goldberg-Variationem
BWV 998
Gustav Leonhardt
Deutsche Harmonia
Mundi 74321 19990 2

This CD went on sale when I was first starting in early music and fascinated me, not only because of how wonderful the Variations themselves are, but because of the tremendous originality of Leonhardt’s performance.

McKENNITT

The book of secrets
Wea QR 0630 19404 2

For me, this is the best work by Loreena McKennitt and a very special CD, one which makes you realize that from the day we are born, we are instilled with the need to look forward to the future or accept our destiny without thinking that what really matters in this world is the passionate and unpredictable journey towards the one absolute truth in life, which is that we will disappear from this earthly existence. It's too bad I'm an agnostic.

GUERRA

Ni es lo mismo ni es igual
Karen 71079302162

My appreciation of Caribbean music—specifically for Juan Luis Guerra—is recent. I like his lyrics, which are like life itself. I wouldn't mind if the desert island were in his part of the world, and moved to native music. I think that we classical musicians should listen to this kind of music every once in a while to learn how to be more natural and less brainy. This stuff relaxes you.

HADEN & METHENY

Missouri Sky
Verve 537 130-2

This is a CD which brings me feelings of peace. The inspiration of these excellent musicians reaches fantastic heights.

MARAIS

Pièces à deux violes du premier livre
Jordi Savall,
Christophe Coin,
Ton Koopman,
Hopkinson Smith
Auvidis Astrée E 7769