Walter Gieseking: His First Concerto Recordings

Walter Gieseking, born in Lyon, France, in 1895, was a prodigious and intuitive pianist whose career spanned the early 20th century, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music world. Recognized for his subtle touch, exquisite pedaling, and masterful dynamic control, Gieseking's interpretations of works by Classical, Romantic, and early 20th-century composers, particularly Debussy and Ravel, are legendary. His extensive recordings, including nearly all of Mozart's solo piano works and the complete published works of Debussy and Ravel available during his lifetime, showcase his extraordinary talent and deep musical insight.

Gieseking's journey began at the age of four when he started playing the piano, quickly making remarkable progress. By 1911, he was studying under the renowned Karl Leimer. His career took off with prolific recording sessions for the German Homochord label between 1923 and 1927, establishing him as one of the most extraordinary pianists of his time.

Beyond his musical prowess, Gieseking was also a composer, adding another dimension to his artistic legacy. His life, however, was marked by tragedy when, in 1955, he and his wife were involved in a bus accident that claimed her life and left him with serious head injuries. Despite this personal loss, Gieseking's contributions to the world of classical piano remain celebrated, making him a timeless figure in the annals of music history.