Shura Cherkassky

Shura Cherkassky, the Russian-American pianist, was a titan of the romantic repertoire, enchanting audiences with his virtuosic technique and singing tone. Born in Odessa, Ukraine, in 1909, Cherkassky's musical journey began under the tutelage of his mother, who had played for Tchaikovsky, and later with the legendary Josef Hoffman. His career spanned an astonishing eight decades, from the acoustic to the digital era, making him one of the longest-performing pianists in history. Cherkassky's interpretations were renowned for their depth and nuance, with a particular affinity for Chopin's works, where he brought out the unique character of each piece, whether it was a waltz or a mazurka. After fleeing Soviet Russia, he settled in the USA and later resided in London, where he continued to captivate audiences until his passing in 1995. Cherkassky's legacy endures through his extensive recordings, offering a glimpse into the heart of romantic piano music.