366Art | Arthur Rubinstein

Today is Arthur Rubinstein birthday, a gifted pianist who brought not only technical perfection but also passion to his performances. the photo editing above and his portrait on my musical reference book / birthday calendar below are made by me, Frieke.

Arthur Rubinstein was born on January 28, 1887, in Łódź, Poland, into a family that held a deep love for art. His father, a renowned milk merchant, recognized his son's musical talent early on and provided the best piano lessons. Arthur quickly gained fame as a prodigy and made his first public appearance at the age of nine.

Rubinstein's artistic journey took him from Poland to Berlin, where he encountered the greatest musical minds of his time. His interactions with composers such as Ravel, Stravinsky, and Brahms deeply influenced his interpretations. Throughout his career, he performed with the world's most prestigious orchestras and conductors, and his international fame grew. What distinguished Rubinstein was not only his dexterity but also his ability to capture the soul of a composition. His interpretations were infused with emotion, ranging from fiery passion to tender melancholy. His renditions of Chopin, Debussy, and Beethoven are legendary.

While Rubinstein was known for his musical genius, he was also a man of many interests. His engaging personality, charm, and wit made him beloved by both fellow musicians and the audience. Beyond the concert stage, he was a devoted family man, a passionate lover of life, and a fervent advocate for peace and art.

The last album recorded by Arthur Rubinstein is titled Chopin: The Nocturnes. The album, released in 1965, features Rubinstein's interpretations of Chopin's beautiful and lyrical Nocturnes. It is considered one of his remarkable recordings, showcasing his mastery of Chopin's work, a composer he admired and frequently performed throughout his career.

Arthur Rubinstein remained active as a performing artist until a ripe old age, giving concerts well into his nineties. He passed away on December 20, 1982, in Geneva, Switzerland, at the age of 95. He was one of the greatest pianists in the history of classical music.