The country of Silence

One of my favorite artists is Emil Gilels, the soviet pianist who won the hearts of audiences worldwide, and widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of all time.

A phrase is attributed to him in which he said that Finland is the country of music, because it is also the country of silence, silence being the first important requirement for music to exist.

Music, at its core, is a dialogue between sound and silence. Without silence, there can be no rhythm, no phrasing, and no space for the listener to reflect on the emotions conveyed by the music.

Gilels, known for his ability to balance power and delicacy, likely understood this better than most. His playing was filled with moments of profound stillness that heightened the beauty of each note, as though he was inviting the audience to listen not only to the music but also to the spaces between.

Finland, with its vast, serene landscapes and quietude, seems like the perfect place for such an idea to flourish. Its lakes, forests, and wide-open skies offer a sense of calm that can inspire the soul and sharpen the ear. Perhaps Gilels saw in Finland not only a physical silence but also a metaphorical one—an invitation to embrace introspection and a deeper connection to the art of music.

As someone who treasures both music and moments of quiet reflection, I find Gilels' observation both poetic and insightful. It serves as a reminder of how essential it is, in both life and art, to make room for silence—not as an absence, but as a presence full of potential.

Today I´ve included at the top of my piano playlist, two of my favorite short recordings by Gilels performing two beautiful Lyric Pieces by Norweigan composer Edvard Grieg.

Listen to them here.

Enjoy and have a great day!

Claudio.