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Pnina DedmanTranslator, pianist
Country:
 Israel |
Content:
- A Life in Translation: The Extraordinary Journey of Pнина Дедман
- Encounter with the Arts in Jerusalem
- A Forbidden Love
- A Bridge between Nations
- Encounters with Greatness
- The Complexities of Evgeny Svetlanov
- A Global Community
- The Changing Landscape of the Arts
A Life in Translation: The Extraordinary Journey of Pнина Дедман
Early Life and InfluencesPнина Дедман's extraordinary life began in a cultured and distinguished household. Her father, Samuel Eisenstadt, was a renowned scholar and member of the World Peace Council. Born in Moscow, Pнина's family moved to Jerusalem when she was four where her father led the Jewish Language Committee for 32 years. He was a passionate advocate for peace, believing that love of one's homeland should be accompanied by respect for one's neighbors.
Encounter with the Arts in Jerusalem
Jerusalem's vibrant cultural scene sparked Pнина's lifelong love for the arts. The city's newly established symphony orchestra in 1936 ignited a craze for concert-going, as people flocked to witness performances even if they had little interest in classical music. She recalls humorous anecdotes that circulated at the time, such as a couple accusing one another of missing the first four symphonies due to the wife's lengthy preparations.
A Forbidden Love
As a young woman, Pнина fell head over heels for an Englishman, despite her initial reluctance to date British citizens due to their harsh treatment of Jewish refugees after World War II. After four years of challenges and obstacles, including Ronald's decision to convert to Judaism, they married in what Pнина describes as the happiest union she could imagine.
A Bridge between Nations
Following their move to England, Pnina's career took off as a translator. Her cultural background and passion for music made her the perfect match for her first client in 1953: the legendary violinist David Oistrakh. Her role as Oistrakh's translator became the catalyst for a deep friendship and opened doors to countless other musical luminaries.
Encounters with Greatness
Over the years, Pнина worked with a veritable Who's Who of Soviet performers, including Arkady Raikin, Mark Bernes, Emil Gilels, and various orchestras. Her responsibilities extended beyond translation to include tour management. In the mid-1950s, she crossed paths with the charismatic Mstislav Rostropovich, whose wit and charm quickly won her over.
The Complexities of Evgeny Svetlanov
Evgeny Svetlanov presented a unique challenge with his notoriously difficult personality. Pnina recalls that the slightest shift in his mood could cast a shadow over their day. Despite his demanding nature, they developed a close bond that extended beyond work. Svetlanov's deep appreciation for classical music led him to discover the works of British composer Edward Elgar through Pnina's husband, Ronald.
A Global Community
Pnina's work and friendships spanned the globe, from collaborations with Leonid Kogan and the Bolshoi Ballet to the Krasnoznamenny Alexandrov Ensemble. Her unwavering warmth and respect earned her the affection of countless musicians.
The Changing Landscape of the Arts
Today, the cost of attending major musical events like those at the Royal Opera House has made it increasingly difficult for ordinary audiences to experience world-class performances. However, Pnina finds solace in the vibrant music scene in her hometown of Croydon. She remains an ardent supporter of the annual BBC Young Musician competition, marveling at the extraordinary talent showcased by the next generation of musical stars.
