Saori is a great piano player.

[8769]

I came across #1, below, today.
1. Saori is a great piano player.

Is the expression “a great piano player” good English?

If it is, is there any difference in nuance between #1, above, and #2, below?
2. Saori is a great pianist.

 

[bibliolept]

I don't find anything wrong with the first sentence.

The sentences have the same meaning, but "pianist" would likely be preferred in more formal contexts.