The Wigmore Hall debut of Russian-born pianist Irina Lankova on 1 July was marked by a programme combining two Russian contemporaries - Rachmaninov and Scriabin - with Chopin, a juxtaposition united, historically, through the figure of John Field. Irina Lankova, a gifted artist, began with five Rachmaninov Preludes, the famous C sharp minor followed by four from Opus 23. These were judiciously chosen and extremely well played, prefacing Chopin's C minor Nocturne Opus 48 No 1 and G minor Ballade. In these works, Lankova's control of line was exceptional, at the same time as producing a fine depth of tone. Scriabin's Opus 28 Fantasia proved a good choice for this artist, who revelled in its myriad characterisation, and this notable recital ended with a totally convincing and intensely musical account of Chopin's B minor Sonata. One hopes to hear this very interesting artist again soon.
Musical Opinion (UK), Robert Matthew-Walker, September 2008