I had no idea of any of the details of his career, knowing him only really from his recordings of Liszt.
In 1939 he was the first pianist to perform live on TV. In 1997 he became the first pianist to perform live over the internet, regarding engagement with new media as much a philosophical principle as a money spinner.
During his National Service he accompanied Eleanor Roosevelt on her travels, playing the national anthem before her speeches. He played at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration and was invited performed at the White House for six consecutive presidents, from Herbert Hoover to Lyndon Johnson.
His last concert was in 2008, his last lesson was given only a week before he died, aged 94.
A life to be envied I think.
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Earl Wild
Earl Wild
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Death of a showman
Death of a showman
