Both of the Chopin opuses on this disc, the Preludes op.28 and the Polonaises op.26, written during the first decade of the composer's exile, display to perfection the fullness of the composer's personality. In the interpretation of Katarzyna Popowa-Zydroń, they are masterfully balanced. Bringing out all of the most important grimaces of the composer's face, with his aristocratic elegance and, at the same time, Romantic frenzy, the distinguished artist draws a deep, psychological portrait of this representative of the Great Emigration. The pianist became chair of the jury at the 17th Fryderyk Chopin International Piano Competition in October 2015.

The recording was made at Warsaw Philharmonic Concert Hall in Warsaw from 13 to 15 September 2014.