THE PIANIST.COM - making pianists feel at home » Shura Cherkassky http://www.thepianist.com A journey in the world of pianists, musicians, composers who changed our lives and times - Written by Italian pianist Roberta Pili Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:13:38 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=abc en hourly 1 Shura Cherkassky – 1909-1995 http://www.thepianist.com/2009/10/shura-cherkassky-1909-1995/ http://www.thepianist.com/2009/10/shura-cherkassky-1909-1995/#comments Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:39:15 +0000 Roberta Pili http://www.thepianist.com/?p=289 A terrific singing piano tone, a sublime technique, always serving the purpose of the musical message, and a perfect seducing interpretation.
Alexander Isaakovic Cherkassky, known as Shura Cherkassky, was one of the leading personalities among the generation of great pianists of the 20th century. He started his early piano education with his mother Lydia. Later on he became pupil of Jozéf Hofmann.
His concert career lasted through his long life, in fact he was actively performing until his death 1995.

What made his approach to the piano that singular?
He was able to focus on the keys with astonishing concentrating power, his interpretations were full of inventive musical atmosphere, he always created inspiring piano recitals for the audience.
Shura never played the same piece the same way. Spontaneity and freshness characterized his playing, the purpose of creating the music in every single moment drove this excellent artist to the highest level of musicianship.

One of the best recordings of Shura Cherkassky to be absolutely mentioned is Tschaikovsky Piano Concerto No.1 B-Flat minor. The best Maestoso of this concerto ( first movement ) ever played.
No other other pianist could reach this peak in this particular piece like Shura Cherkassky. Hard to believe, but true.

A tribute to his teacher Hofmann: Kaleidoscope

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