Period

:

Classical

Genre

:

Concerto

 

Mark Zeltser is a renowned classical pianist who has captivated audiences around the world with his virtuosic performances and deep musicality. Born in Moscow, Russia in 1955, Zeltser began playing the piano at the age of five and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. His parents, both professional musicians, recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Zeltser studied at the Moscow Conservatory under the tutelage of legendary pianist and teacher Emil Gilels. Under Gilels' guidance, Zeltser developed a deep understanding of the classical repertoire and honed his technical skills to a level of mastery. He also gained valuable experience performing in concerts and competitions, winning several prestigious awards including the First Prize at the All-Union Piano Competition in 1977. In 1979, Zeltser emigrated from the Soviet Union to the United States, where he continued his studies at the Juilliard School in New York City. He quickly established himself as a rising star in the classical music world, earning critical acclaim for his performances and recordings. In 1981, he won the Gold Medal at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world. Zeltser's career continued to flourish in the following years, as he performed with major orchestras and conductors around the world. He also recorded extensively, releasing acclaimed albums of works by Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and other composers. His recordings have received numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy nomination for his recording of Beethoven's Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2 with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra. Throughout his career, Zeltser has been known for his passionate and deeply expressive performances, as well as his technical brilliance. He has a particular affinity for the music of Chopin, whose works he has performed and recorded extensively. He has also been praised for his interpretations of the music of Beethoven, Schumann, and other composers. In addition to his performing and recording career, Zeltser has also been active as a teacher and mentor to young musicians. He has taught at the Manhattan School of Music, the Peabody Conservatory, and the University of California, Los Angeles, among other institutions. He has also served as a juror for several major piano competitions, including the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition and the International Tchaikovsky Competition. Zeltser's career has been marked by numerous highlights and achievements. In addition to his win at the Van Cliburn Competition, he has performed with major orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. He has also given recitals at major venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Royal Festival Hall in London. Zeltser has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Avery Fisher Career Grant, the Prix Jacques Durand from the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris, and the Order of Friendship from the Russian Federation. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the cultural life of his native Russia, receiving the Pushkin Medal from the Russian government in 2015. Despite his many accomplishments, Zeltser remains dedicated to his craft and continues to perform and record at the highest level.

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