1. Early Life and Education
2. International Success
3. Teaching and Collaboration
4. Canadian Citizenship and Later Career
5. Recordings
6. Brahms's Waltzes (Decca LK-4063)

Early Life and Education

Géza Anda, a Hungarian-Swiss-Canadian pianist and music educator, was born in Budapest, Hungary. His musical education began in 1947 at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, where he studied under renowned pianists Annie Fischer and Béla Bartók. Later, he refined his skills at the Geneva Conservatory with Dinu Lipatti and in Paris with Nadia Boulanger. In London, he received guidance from Myra Hess.

International Success

In 1949, Géza Anda shared the first prize at the International Competition in Geneva with Maria Tipo. This triumph propelled him into an extensive touring career, taking him to South America, Indonesia, and Europe between 1951 and 1967. His performances were marked by their depth, sensitivity, and technical brilliance.

Teaching and Collaboration

In 1967, Géza Anda became a guest musician at Indiana University. Two years later, he joined the faculty of the Université Laval in Quebec City, Canada, where he taught and mentored a generation of talented pianists. Notable students included Jacinthe Couture and Michel Franck, both winners of the Prix d'Europe. Anda also collaborated with pianist Jeanne Landry, performing concertos for two pianos by Roger Matton, Bartók, and Schumann.

Canadian Citizenship and Later Career

Géza Anda became a Canadian citizen in 1975. He continued to perform extensively in Montreal and Quebec, and appeared on the CBC television show "Les Grands Concerts." As a guest soloist with the CBC Quebec Chamber Orchestra, he commemorated the 25th anniversary of Dinu Lipatti's passing.

Recordings

Géza Anda's legacy includes a rich collection of recordings. Among his notable works are:

Brahms's Waltzes (Decca LK-4063)

Schumann's compositions (Decca LM-4539)

Sonatas by Schubert and Grieg with cellist Paul Tortelier (Pathé-Marconi FALP-570)

Géza Anda's artistry, dedication to teaching, and enduring influence continue to inspire musicians and music lovers worldwide.

Pianist