Wanda Landowska

Wanda Landowska, born in Warsaw in 1879, was a pioneering Polish harpsichordist and pianist whose passion and dedication revitalized the harpsichord's presence in the 20th century. A true visionary, she was the first to record Johann Sebastian Bach's Goldberg Variations on the harpsichord in 1933, a milestone that cemented her status as a trailblazer in the world of early music. Landowska's influence extended beyond her performances; she was a respected teacher at institutions like the Curtis Institute and the École de Musique Ancienne, and her writings and recordings inspired countless musicians. Her journey took her from her native Poland to France, where she became a naturalized citizen in 1938, and later to the United States, where she continued her musical pursuits despite the challenges of World War II. Landowska's legacy endures as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the harpsichord and the rich musical heritage it represents.