Sviatoslav Richter

Sviatoslav Richter, born in Odessa in 1915, was a towering figure in the world of classical piano, renowned for his technical brilliance and profound musical insight. Studying under Heinrich Neuhaus at the Moscow Conservatory, Richter's career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the 20th century's classical music landscape. His performances were not merely displays of virtuosity but deeply introspective journeys, as evidenced by his legendary slow and moving interpretation of Schubert's G-major sonata. Richter's unique style and philosophy initially polarized audiences, but his genius ultimately won over even the most skeptical listeners. A self-taught pianist who began performing publicly at a young age, Richter's legacy endures as one of the greatest pianists of all time.