Aladar Racz

**Aladar Racz** (1886–1958) was a Hungarian cimbalom virtuoso and a key figure in bringing the traditional hammered dulcimer into classical music circles. Born in Budapest, Racz became renowned for his dazzling technique and expressive performances, often transcribing complex classical works—like Bach’s *Partita No. 3* or pieces by Lully—into stunning cimbalom showcases. His recordings, such as *The Classic of the Cimbalom* and *Flashback*, blended Hungarian folk roots with Baroque and Renaissance influences, earning him collaborations with big names like conductor Ernest Ansermet and composer Igor Stravinsky.

Beyond the stage, Racz was a passionate educator, teaching at Budapest’s Franz Liszt Academy and ensuring the cimbalom’s survival in modern music. Releases like *Dances and Delights* capture his playful energy and technical brilliance, while his legacy lives on through musicians who continue to explore the instrument’s rich, shimmering sound. A true bridge between folk tradition and classical innovation, Racz made the cimbalom sing in ways nobody thought possible.

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