Leon Fleisher, RIP

[jimsumner]

Not sure how many classical-music lovers we have on the board. But Fleisher was arguably the greatest American-born classical pianist ever and he had a compelling personal story. Best cycle of Beethoven piano concertos ever, IMO.

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/02/a...sher-dead.html

[DevilHorse]

Van Cliburn says Hello (from the grave). [Played at two of my cousin's bar mitzvahs as a boy].

Larry
DevilHorse

[Phredd3]

I'll have go look up Fleischer's recordings. I recall his story, but his best recordings preceded my time and I focused on newer artists. Perhaps time to go back and take a listen.

[jimsumner]

I'll have go look up Fleischer's recordings. I recall his story, but his best recordings preceded my time and I focused on newer artists. Perhaps time to go back and take a listen.

Start with Beethoven and Brahms concertos.

As an aside, Murray Perahia would also make the short list of great American-born pianists.

[robed deity]

His recordings of Brahms d minor concerto and Beethoven Emperor are the gold standard. And after being afflicted with dystonia, he was highly influential as a teacher. I have many friends who studied with him and were inspired by the magic he brought to every lesson. He will be greatly missed.