Polish-American Pianist Arthur Rubinstein Died in 1982

Rubinstein is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century

Polish-American pianist Arthur Rubinstein died on this day in 1982 – aged 95.

Beginning at the piano at age three, Rubinstein later enrolled at the Warsaw Conservatory at eight years old. A year later, he became a protégé of Heinrich Barth in Berlin and debuted on the European stage in Berlin at the age of 13.

His American debut occurred in 1906 with the Philadelphia Orchestra at Carnegie Hall, where, due to his youth, he received a somewhat reserved reception. During World War I, Rubinstein, who was fluent in eight languages, served as a military interpreter in London and also continued performing, often collaborating with the violinist Eugène Ysaÿe.

In 1932, he married Aniela Młynarski, which marked the beginning of a profound reassessment of his artistic pursuits. Revitalizing his commitment to music, he immersed himself in intense practice sessions lasting 12 to 16 hours a day, instilling a newfound discipline into his already dazzling technique. Upon his return to the United States in 1937, where he graced the stage at Carnegie Hall, he received acclaim as a musical genius.

Rubinstein boasted an extensive repertoire list and was recognized as a consummate interpreter of Chopin's oeuvre.

Rubinstein relocated to the United States during World War II, gaining citizenship in 1946.

His discography includes over 200 recordings, and in 1976, he received the United States Medal of Freedom in acknowledgment of his contributions.

Although best known as a recitalist and concerto soloist, Rubinstein is also remembered as an outstanding chamber musician – partnering with such luminaries as Henryk Szeryng, Jascha Heifetz, Pablo Casals, and Gregor Piatigorsky.

 

ARTHUR RUBINSTEIN | LISZT LIEBESTRAUM NO. 3 | 1954