Géza Anda

Géza Anda, the Swiss-Hungarian pianist, was a titan of the classical and romantic piano repertoire, renowned for his profound interpretations and flawless technique. Born in Budapest, Anda's musical journey began under the tutelage of Ernst von Dohnányi and Zoltán Kodály, leading to a debut performance of Brahms's second Piano Concerto in 1939. His career soared with a discography that spans from Bach to Rachmaninoff, but it was his recordings of Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, and Bartók that truly set him apart. Anda was the first pianist to record all of Mozart’s piano concertos, leading them from the keyboard, a feat that showcased his extraordinary musicality and command of the instrument. Beyond his solo work, Anda collaborated with numerous renowned conductors and was also a dedicated teacher, inspiring generations of pianists through his masterclasses and the Géza Anda Foundation, which continues to promote young talent. His legacy endures not just in his recordings, but also in the spirit of musical excellence he instilled in his students and admirers worldwide.