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Vásáry: The Poet of Chopin and Liszt Dies at 92
18 Feb
Summary
- Died aged 92, lauded for elegant interpretations of Chopin and Liszt.
- Began conducting career in 1971 after success as a pianist.
- Mentored by Zoltán Kodály, who provided crucial support as a child.
Hungarian pianist and conductor Tamás Vásáry passed away at the age of 92. He was highly celebrated for his graceful and precise renditions of works by Chopin and Liszt. Vásáry's career began with promising concerts in the early 1960s, captivating audiences with poetic expressivity.
Beyond his acclaimed piano performances, Vásáry also pursued a conducting career, debuting in 1971. He held leadership positions with the Northern Sinfonia and Bournemouth Sinfonietta, and directed the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra. His musical journey was profoundly shaped by composer Zoltán Kodály, who provided vital support during his youth.
Vásáry's early successes in international competitions led to his emigration in 1956. He established a significant presence in Britain from the 1960s, undertaking extensive recording projects and performing over 100 concerts annually at his peak. Over his lifetime, he performed more than 8,000 concerts.
