Choose artist...

Top 10 for Dec

Classical radio says; Leif Ove Andsnes - Chopin Ballades & Nocturnes is a must-hear recording / ClassicalMPR: Major Themes

Welcome to Major Themes, a monthly feature in which classical music experts recommend a must-hear recording based on what's happening at classical stations and programs around the country. This month, we checked in with friends in Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and California, as well as American Public Media. Here are their top picks.

There are many recordings of Chopin on the market. That said, I'm glad that Leif Ove Andsnes has taken the time to create this album and that it's now something that we can share with our audiences. The music sounds dreamlike in his capable hands, and my overall listening experience became all the more satisfying when I learned that Andsnes struggled in a sense to find this intimate place in his relationship with the pianists' pianist. Unsurprisingly, it will pair well with your favorite bottle of red. - Brad Althoff, managing producer of national classical programs, American Public Media, St. Paul, Minn.

SEE THE FULL ClassicalMPR: Major Themes PAGE & LISTEN