Italian pianist Maurizio Pollini, known for his exceptional talent and intellectual prowess, has died at the age of 82. La Scala opera house in Milan confirmed his passing on Saturday, although the cause of death was not specified. Pollini had faced health challenges, leading to the cancellation of a concert at the Salzburg Festival in 2022 due to heart problems.
Throughout his illustrious six-decade career, Pollini's musical repertoire extended beyond traditional classics to include works by modern composers such as Stravinsky, Schoenberg, Stockhausen, and Boulez. La Scala hailed him as 'one of the great musicians of our time' and a significant figure in the theater's artistic life for over 50 years.
Born into a family of artists in Milan on January 5, 1942, Pollini's musical journey began at a young age. He gained early recognition by winning the International Chopin Piano Competition at just 18, impressing the jury with his exceptional talent.
Despite his early success, Pollini chose to pause his career to further his studies and delve deeper into the classical repertoire of composers like Beethoven, Schubert, and Brahms. His dedication and passion for music shone through in his performances, captivating audiences worldwide.
Over the years, Pollini collaborated with renowned conductors such as Claudio Abbado, Riccardo Muti, and Daniel Barenboim, showcasing his versatility and artistry. His recordings with the Deutsche Grammophon label in the '70s and '90s solidified his reputation as a celebrated interpreter of classical masterpieces.
Pollini's musical legacy lives on through his son Daniele, an accomplished pianist and conductor, and his wife Marilisa. His contributions to the world of classical music have left an indelible mark, earning him accolades such as a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Soloist Performance in 2007.
Maurizio Pollini's profound impact on the music world will be remembered for generations to come, as his unparalleled talent and dedication continue to inspire aspiring musicians and music lovers worldwide.
