Shura Cherkassky

Born 7 October in the Ukrainian city of Odessa in 1909 (not 1911 as given in New Grove and other reference sources), Shura Cherkassky was a child prodigy at twelve, playing before Herbert Hoover in the White House.

His career, spanning most of the twentieth century, was quixotic; many would say exceptional amongst master pianists. His repertoire was vast and many would say his playing of the Romantics stood out in a unique way. Overall, his manner and his pianism produced a compelling force amongst twentieth century pianists.

Shura Cherkassky died in London, UK on 27 December 1995, aged eighty-six.

 

A selection of articles about Shura Cherkassky

What Harpsichordists Can Learn From Paderewski - Endre Anaru investigates, and offers a suggestion

Spotlight. A Romantic Piano Master - Esdras Mugatik listens to Shura Cherkassky. '... a magical capacity to differentiate levels of sound ...'

Transcending virtuosity - Alistair Hinton comments on points made in Gordon Rumson's recent Chopin review