Alfred Cortot, born in Switzerland to French and Swiss parents, was a titan of the classical music world in the 20th century, renowned for his prowess as a pianist, conductor, and teacher. With a massive repertoire, Cortot was particularly celebrated for his poetic interpretations of Romantic piano works, with a special affinity for the compositions of Chopin, Franck, Saint-Saëns, and Schumann. His edits of piano music by Chopin, Liszt, and Schumann for Éditions Durand remain influential to this day. Cortot's career spanned decades, primarily based in Paris, and he was one of the most prolifically-recorded pianists of his time, often re-recording major works multiple times. His legacy as a teacher was equally significant, with students who came to him already technically proficient, seeking his unique insights and artistic guidance. Despite his controversial role in France's Nazi-sanctioned occupation government during World War II, Cortot's musical contributions continue to inspire and captivate classical music enthusiasts worldwide.
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