Grigory Ginzburg

Grigory Romanovich Ginzburg (May 29 1904 in Nizhny Novgorod - December 5 1961 in Moscow) was a Jewish-born, Russian pianist.

Biography

Ginzburg first studied with his mother before being accepted as a student in Alexander Goldenweizer's class at Moscow Conservatory. In 1927 he gained fourth prize in the Warsaw International Frederick Chopin Competition. He was recognized as one of the finest musicians in Soviet Union and toured Europe several times. He became professor at Moscow Conservatory in 1929 and was a very important teacher. From the long list of his pupils we can mention Gleb Axelrod and Sergeï Dorensky.

Ginzburg is famous for his piano touch that has ties with the tradition of 19th century players such as Franz Liszt. His eclectic repertoire and his art of transcription make of him one of the most special performers in piano history.

Discography

• Grigory Ginzburg: Live Recordings, 3 volumes, Vox Aeterna, 2006
• Russian Piano School: Goldenweiser & Ginzburg, RCD, 2004
• Grands Pianistes du 20e Siècle - Grigori Ginzburg, Philips, 1999