Wilhelm Backhaus International pianist Date of Birth: 26.03.1884 Country: Germany

Biography of Wilhelm Backhaus

Wilhelm Backhaus was a talented international-level pianist whose peak of popularity came in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born on March 26, 1884, in Leipzig, Germany. As a young boy, he demonstrated clear musical abilities and began learning to play the piano at an early age. At the age of sixteen, Backhaus made his first appearance in London and embarked on tours throughout Europe.

Five years later, Wilhelm was awarded the top prize at the prestigious 4th Rubinstein Competition in Paris, and in 1910, he released his first album. Soon, Wilhelm Backhaus became extremely popular, with his performances gaining special success not only in America and Europe but also in Australia. His name was rightfully included in the prestigious collection "The Golden Book of Music," which was released in Germany.

Surprisingly, Wilhelm never attended formal musical institutions or conservatories - throughout his career, he received private lessons from renowned musicians who were amazed by his extraordinary talent. Wilhelm Backhaus can easily be called a true virtuoso, although many experts considered him too sober, correct, and cold, lacking the necessary fiery passion during performances that is characteristic of true geniuses.

In the 1950s, a new Wilhelm Backhaus emerged. By that time, he had radically changed his repertoire and mainly focused on performing works by Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart, and Schubert. He was recognized as one of the best interpreters of Beethoven's music. Critics marveled at the master's abilities and his creative journey - from an ordinary virtuoso to a brilliant performer.

Wilhelm Backhaus continued to evolve throughout his life, eventually combining his natural musical talent with great wisdom. His artistic life was full of ups and downs, but he never regretted the path he had chosen. He often expressed his dream of playing until his last minute of life. His dream came true as he performed in America at the age of seventy, shone in Vienna at eighty-five, and just a week before his death, Wilhelm Backhaus performed in Ostia, Italy.

The pianist passed away on July 5, 1969, as he suffered a heart attack on stage.