Alicia de Larrocha, a towering figure in the world of classical piano, was hailed as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. Born Alicia de Larrocha y de la Calle in Barcelona, Spain, she began her musical journey at an incredibly young age, so eager to play that she would bang her head on the floor until permitted to reach the piano keys. Standing at just 1.52 meters tall, her physical stature belied her monumental talent and influence.
De Larrocha was renowned for her profound interpretations of Spanish music, yet her repertoire spanned the breadth of classical piano literature. She was celebrated for her performances of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert, with critics praising her sublime touch and emotional depth. Her renditions of Chopin and Liszt were equally revered, placing her among the elite of piano virtuosos. Even Olivier Messiaen, the esteemed composer and pianist, lauded her performance of Albeniz's "Iberia," considering it one of the most brilliant piano works.
Her career spanned an astonishing 75 years, during which she captivated audiences worldwide with her technical brilliance and artistic sensitivity. De Larrocha's legacy endures through her extensive archive, a treasure trove of her personal and professional achievements, and her enduring influence on the world of classical piano.
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