Pnina Salzman

Pnina Salzman, born in Tel Aviv in 1922, was a pioneering Israeli classical pianist and esteemed pedagogue whose career spanned decades and continents. Recognized as Israel's "First Lady of the Piano," Salzman's prodigious talent was evident from a young age, performing her first recital at just eight years old. Her journey took her to Paris, where she studied under the renowned Alfred Cortot and later at the Conservatoire of Paris with Magda Tagliaferro. Salzman was the first Israeli pianist to achieve international acclaim, captivating audiences across Europe and Asia in the early 1940s. Throughout her career, she was celebrated for her virtuosity and her deep connection to the music, particularly her masterful interpretations of Chopin. Beyond her solo performances, Salzman was an enthusiastic chamber music performer, collaborating with distinguished groups such as the Amadeus String Quartet. Her legacy endures through her recordings and the numerous students she inspired and taught, including those at the Buchmann-Mehta School of Music at Tel Aviv University. Salzman's contributions to the world of classical music are immeasurable, leaving an indelible mark on the global musical landscape.