Rudolf Firkušný was a celebrated Czech-born pianist, renowned for his interpretations of the classical and romantic repertoire, as well as the music of Czech composers. Born on February 11, 1912, in Napajedla, Czechoslovakia, Firkušný began his musical education at an early age, showing prodigious talent. He studied at the Prague Conservatory and later with the legendary composers Josef Suk and Leoš Janáček, as well as with the renowned pianist and pedagogue Alfred Cortot in Paris. This rich educational background helped shape Firkušný's distinctive musical style, which combined technical precision with deep emotional expressiveness.

Throughout his illustrious career, Firkušný championed the works of Czech composers, particularly those of Janáček, Dvořák, and Martinů, bringing their compositions to international audiences and ensuring their place in the concert repertoire. His discography includes critically acclaimed recordings of Dvořák's Piano Concerto, Janáček's piano works, and a wide range of solo and chamber music pieces by composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Schubert, and Brahms. Firkušný's performances were celebrated for their clarity, depth, and lyrical quality, earning him a devoted following around the world. He continued to perform and record until his death on July 19, 1994, leaving behind a legacy as one of the 20th century's most distinguished pianists.

Genres

Classical Piano

Czech Classical Piano

Related Artists

Hans Rosbaud

Benno Moiseiwitsch

Egon Petri

Josef Lhevinne

Grigory Ginzburg

Hans Richter-Haaser

Karel Ančerl

Géza Anda

Sándor Végh

Simon Barere

Wolfgang Schneiderhan

István Kertész

Latest Release

Mozart: Duport Variations, K. 573; Schubert: Piano Sonata No. 21 (2024 Remaster)

Rudolf Firkusny

Album - 14 Tracks - Released June 28, 2024