The tragedy behind Grieg

Simon Barere was a fantastic pianist.

Born in Odessa (present-day Ukraine), he eventually emigrated to the United States where he held a prominent career, appearing annually at Carnegie Hall (a privilege offered only to top-notch artists).

It was in this place where he would encounter his untimely death…

He was to perform Grieg´s famous A minor concerto together with Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

The following is a recount from American critic Olin Downes:

“Mr Barere seemed to be in top form. His entrance solo was brilliantly delivered. But presently this writer was puzzled by the pace of his performance, which seemed excessively fast.

Then comes the passage after the violin-cellos have announced the second theme of developments discoursed between the piano and the orchestra. A moment later it seemed as if Mr Barere were bending over to one side, listening with special attention to the instruments as he matched his tone with theirs. In another moment his left hand fell from the keyboard and in another second he fell senseless from the stool to the floor.

The orchestra stopped in consternation, someone shouted from the stage for a doctor, and with some difficulty, the unconscious man was carried from the stage.” 

Mr. Barere had suffered a massive cerebral hemorrhage. He died backstage, a few moments later.

What a tragedy.

Fortunately, several of his recordings are left for us to appreciate the magnitude of his artistry.

One of these is the beautiful 2nd Piano Concerto by Sergei Rachmaninoff.

I´ve included today the second movement from his 1929 performance of this concerto at Carnegie Hall in my Classical Piano playlist which you can access by clicking here. It´s at the top of the playlist.

This performance is immense in musicianship. It is a truly touching account of one of the most beloved pieces of music.

Enjoy, and have a great day.

Claudio.