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Eliso VirsaladzeGeorgian and Russian pianist
Date of Birth: 14.09.1942
Country:  Georgia |
Content:
Early Life and Education
Musical CareerRecognition and Awards
Repertoire and Collaborations
Teaching and Legacy
Elisso Virsaladze (born 14 September 1947) is a renowned Georgian and Russian pianist and педагоgue. Her extraordinary talent was recognized early on when she began studying piano with her grandmother, a celebrated pianist and teacher. Virsaladze continued her training at the Tbilisi Central Music School and later at the Tbilisi Conservatory, where she graduated in 1959 under the mentorship of her grandmother.
Virsaladze's quest for musical excellence led her to the Moscow Conservatory (1966-1968), where she studied under the renowned pianists Heinrich Neuhaus and Yakov Zak. In 1959, she became a soloist with the Tbilisi Philharmonic Orchestra and in 1977 with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra.
Throughout her career, Virsaladze has garnered immense acclaim for her exceptional interpretations of works by Western European composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Liszt, and Chopin. She has also mastered the challenging compositions of Russian masters such as Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev, and Shostakovich. Her performances have captivated audiences throughout Europe, the United States, and Japan.
Virsaladze's exceptional artistry has earned her the highest accolades. In 1989, she was awarded the title of People's Artist of the USSR, and in 2000, she received the State Prize of the Russian Federation. Her interpretation of Schumann's works was particularly praised by the legendary pianist Sviatoslav Richter.
Beyond her solo performances, Virsaladze has actively collaborated with prestigious ensembles, including the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. She has also worked with renowned conductors such as Rudolf Barshai, Kirill Kondrashin, Eugene Svetlanov, Yuri Temirkanov, Riccardo Muti, Kurt Sanderling, and Wolfgang Sawallisch.
Teaching and Legacy
In addition to her illustrious performing career, Virsaladze has dedicated herself to teaching. Since 1967, she has been a professor at the Moscow Conservatory, where she has held the positions of docent (1977) and professor (1993). She also serves as a professor at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater München in Germany.
Virsaladze's pedagogical approach emphasizes technical prowess, profound musical understanding, and the development of individual artistic expression. Her students have gone on to become acclaimed pianists and educators in their own right, continuing her musical legacy for generations to come.
