Louis Kentner (1905–1987) was a Hungarian-born British pianist, renowned for his exquisite technique and profound interpretation, particularly of Romantic composers. Born Lajos Kentner on July 19, 1905, in Karlovac, he moved to Hungary at a young age and established a firm musical foundation that earned him recognition and respect throughout his career. Having studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest, his pianistic abilities were nurtured under the guidance of revered teachers such as Béla Bartók and Zoltán Kodály.

During his illustrious career, Kentner became especially noted for his performances and recordings of the works by Liszt—he was, in fact, one of the composer's foremost interpreters. His commitment to Liszt's music was profound and was reflected in the fact that he won the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition in 1932. Aside from his affinity for Liszt, Kentner also had a strong attachment to the musical works of Chopin and Beethoven, as evidenced by his numerous recordings, which are still treasured by enthusiasts of classical piano music. Over the decades, Kentner's talent took him across Europe and to North America, where his recitals and concerts were consistently praised for their precision, depth, and emotional insight.

Despite a career that spanned deep into the 20th century with recordings encompassing monumental works like Beethoven's "Hammerklavier" Sonata and "Waldstein" Sonata, Kentner's unique style remained rooted in a deep understanding and respect for the composer's intentions. His approach united intellectual depth with a touch that illuminated the intricacies of the music. After settling in the United Kingdom, Kentner continued to influence the classical music world not only as a performer but also as a mentor, guiding the next generation of pianists in the heritage of the Romantic tradition. His recordings, such as his Chopin and Liszt piano pieces and his work with conductor Sir Thomas Beecham, are lasting testaments to a musician who dedicated his life to extract and communicate the very essence of the piano literature’s grand masters.

Genres

Historic Piano Performance

Hungarian Classical Piano

Latest Release

Chopin and Liszt Piano Pieces (1948 Remastered)

Louis Kentner

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released October 29, 2021