Anton Rubinstein: Short Profile

When Rubinstein played, audiences scarcely knew what had hit them. An emotional tsunami, a pianistic Titan, a towering musical intellect, he bestrode the musical world like a Colossus for half a century. He carried most of the serious keyboard repertoire in his head, and made an impact, too, as a conductor. Though he composed prolifically, few of his works achieved popularity in his lifetime, but as an epoch-making educator he transformed the musical life of a nation – with effects that still resonate today. This profile of Rubinstein includes an hour of music by the composer. Audio samples are contained in the text: just tap to listen while you read.