Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Keyboard

 

Vladimir Pleshakov was born on August 31, 1949, in Moscow, Russia. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a pianist and his mother a singer. From a young age, Pleshakov showed a natural talent for music and began studying piano at the age of six. Pleshakov's early musical education was at the Moscow Central Music School, where he studied with renowned pianist Yakov Flier. He later continued his studies at the Moscow Conservatory, where he was a student of Lev Vlassenko. During his time at the conservatory, Pleshakov won several awards, including first prize at the All-Union Piano Competition in 1972. After completing his studies, Pleshakov began performing extensively throughout the Soviet Union and Europe. He quickly gained a reputation as a virtuoso pianist, known for his technical skill and musical sensitivity. In 1978, he formed a piano duo with his wife, Elena Winther, and the two began performing together regularly. In 1980, Pleshakov and Winther emigrated from the Soviet Union to the United States. They settled in New York City, where they continued to perform as a duo and as soloists. Pleshakov also began teaching at the Manhattan School of Music, where he was a faculty member for over 30 years. Throughout his career, Pleshakov performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. He also collaborated with many renowned conductors, such as Leonard Bernstein, Seiji Ozawa, and Zubin Mehta. One of Pleshakov's most notable performances was his 1987 solo recital at Carnegie Hall. The program included works by Beethoven, Chopin, and Rachmaninoff, and was met with critical acclaim. The New York Times praised Pleshakov's "impeccable technique and musicality," and called him "a pianist of the highest order." Pleshakov also made several recordings throughout his career, both as a soloist and as part of the Pleshakov-Winther Duo. His recordings include works by Beethoven, Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Prokofiev, among others. In addition to his performing and recording career, Pleshakov was also a dedicated teacher. He taught at the Manhattan School of Music for over three decades, and also gave masterclasses and workshops around the world. Many of his students went on to have successful careers as pianists and educators. Throughout his career, Pleshakov received numerous awards and honors. In 1991, he was awarded the Order of Friendship by the Russian government for his contributions to the arts. He was also a recipient of the Avery Fisher Career Grant, the Naumburg Award, and the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition. Sadly, Pleshakov passed away on December 31, 2018, at the age of 69. He is remembered as a brilliant pianist, a dedicated teacher, and a beloved member of the classical music community. His legacy lives on through his recordings, his students, and the countless audiences who were moved by his performances.

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