Emil Gilels was a towering figure in the world of classical piano, whose career spanned several decades until his untimely death in 1985. Born on October 19, 1916, in Odessa, Ukraine, Gilels began playing the piano at a young age and quickly garnered attention for his exceptional talent. He made his public debut at the age of 12 and went on to study at the Odessa Conservatory and later at the Moscow Conservatory under the tutelage of the esteemed Heinrich Neuhaus.

As one of the Soviet Union's most celebrated pianists, Gilels achieved international acclaim after winning the prestigious Ysaÿe International Festival in Brussels in 1938. His virtuosity and profound interpretative depth were evident in his performances, which often combined technical brilliance with emotional resonance. Gilels' repertoire was extensive, encompassing a wide range of composers, though he is particularly noted for his interpretations of Beethoven, whose complete sonatas he recorded to critical acclaim.

During his illustrious career, Emil Gilels collaborated with some of the world's leading orchestras and conductors and toured extensively, captivating audiences with his live performances. His legacy persists through numerous recordings, which include studio sessions and live concerts that showcase his exceptional artistry and the timeless beauty of his piano playing. These recorded performances, such as "Live in Naples", "Live in Zurich", and "Live in New York", among others, are cherished by classical music aficionados and serve as an enduring testament to his extraordinary musicianship.

Genres

Classical Piano

Ukrainian Classical Piano

Related Artists

Vladimir Horowitz

Sviatoslav Richter

Arthur Rubinstein

Daniel Barenboim

Martha Argerich

Maurizio Pollini

Glenn Gould

Alfred Brendel

Murray Perahia

Krystian Zimerman

Claudio Arrau

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Latest Release

Balladen

Emil Gilels

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released January 27, 2024