Many famous piano performers have entertained and pleased audiences and music lovers throughout history. The piano has been one of the most popular instruments since its invention, owing to its versatility and pleasing sound. While there have been a number of superb pianists throughout history, any summary of the most famous piano performers is somewhat subjective, and it’s tough to fit all of them onto one list. However, several of the same pianists tend to rise to the top of anyone’s charts.

18th Century
A number of famous piano performers influenced one another and resulting generations of performers, particularly during the Classical period of the 18th century. Joseph Haydn was an Austrian composer who is credited as one of the fathers of the symphony, as well as the string quartet. He was a close friend of another Austrian composer, Wolfgang Mozart, a child prodigy who began playing the piano at age three, composing at age five and performing concerts at a very young age. Haydn was also influential in the life of German pianist and composer Ludwig van Beethoven, who studied with Haydn and composed a number of songs for piano and piano accompaniments, even after losing his hearing.

19th Century
In the early half of the 19th century, Frederic Chopin was the first composer to compose exclusively on the piano. A child prodigy, Chopin wrote many beautiful and difficult piano pieces that have thrilled and challenged piano students and players for years. During his adulthood, he continued to compose, but he performed only rarely. On the other hand, Franz Liszt, Chopin’s contemporary and friend, performed frequently, and audiences flocked to watch him. Liszt is also credited with developing the piano recital.

20th Century
In the modern age, Glenn Gould was a Canadian piano performer who became one of the most well-known musicians of the 20th century. Gould was considered highly technically proficient, particularly with the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. However, Gould, who was also known for his rebellious nature, quit performing in 1964.

While Gould was famous for his brilliance, another piano performer managed to break into the pop culture scene to become the highest-paid entertainer in the world. Wladziu Valentino Liberace, an American pianist who was legendary for his showy costumes, made more money than Elvis Presley and the Beatles between 1950 and 1970.

This list of piano performers shows that the piano offers nearly unlimited inspiration. For three centuries, piano players have enthralled listeners and inspired them to try the instrument themselves.