Wilhelm Kempff (1895–1991) was a legendary German pianist and composer, whose career spanned over six decades, establishing him as one of the foremost interpreters of the classical piano repertoire of the 20th century. Born in Jüterbog, Germany, Kempff was a prodigious talent from an early age, making his concert debut at the mere age of nine. He studied at the Berlin Conservatory under the tutelage of eminent figures such as Heinrich Barth and Karl Heinrich Barth. Kempff quickly gained a reputation for his profound artistry and intellectual depth, particularly acclaimed for his performances of Beethoven, Schumann, Bach, and Brahms.

Throughout his expansive career, Kempff made numerous recordings which have been cherished by classical music aficionados worldwide and even after his death, his recordings continue to be re-released to wide acclaim. His lyrical and introspective approach to music is palpable in his interpretation of Beethoven sonatas, which remains a benchmark for many pianists. Kempff was not only an exceptional solo performer but also a chamber musician and accompanist. His contributions to classical music go beyond his performances; he was also respected for his masterclasses and his own compositions, though it is his transformative touch on the keyboard for which he remains most celebrated. The "Wilhelm Kempff: Complete Decca Recordings" series is a testament to his enduring legacy, ensuring that his exquisite artistry continues to inspire and resonate with listeners all over the world.

Genres

Classical Performance

Classical Piano

German Classical Piano

Related Artists

Vladimir Horowitz

Alfred Brendel

Arthur Rubinstein

Emil Gilels

Sviatoslav Richter

Glenn Gould

Claudio Arrau

Murray Perahia

Martha Argerich

Maurizio Pollini

András Schiff

Artur Schnabel

Latest Release

Kempff plays Schumann

Robert Schumann•

Wilhelm Kempff

Album - 86 Tracks - Released June 12, 2024