Wilhelm Backhaus

Wilhelm Backhaus, a titan of the classical piano world, left an indelible mark with his profound interpretations and technical mastery. Born in Leipzig, Backhaus began his musical journey at the tender age of eight and went on to become one of the most renowned pianists of the 20th century. His repertoire was vast, but he was particularly celebrated for his renditions of Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, Chopin, and Brahms. Backhaus was also a pioneer in recording, being the first pianist to record a piano concerto in 1909, and his career spanned an astonishing 61 years, from 1908 to 1969. His recordings, from the early acoustical process to stereo tapes, offer a unique journey through the evolution of piano performance and recording technology. Beyond his solo work, Backhaus was highly admired as a chamber musician, adding depth and richness to his musical legacy. His faithfulness to the composers' music and his transposing skills further cemented his status as a master of his craft. Despite a controversial role in Nazi Germany, Backhaus's contributions to the world of classical piano remain unparalleled, making him a figure of enduring fascination for classical music enthusiasts.