Ivo Pogorelich

Ivo Pogorelich, born on October 20, 1958, in Belgrade, Serbia, is a renowned Croatian pianist known for his distinctive interpretations and technical prowess. He began piano lessons at the age of seven and later studied at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow under the tutelage of Aliza Kezeradze, who would become his mentor and, later, his wife. Pogorelich's breakthrough came in 1980 when he was controversially eliminated in the third round of the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw. This decision sparked a scandal, with the esteemed juror Martha Argerich resigning in protest, declaring him a "genius." This incident propelled him to international stardom, leading to a successful debut recital at Carnegie Hall in 1981.

Renowned for his idiosyncratic and often unconventional interpretations, Pogorelich has a repertoire that spans from Baroque to contemporary music. His recordings for Deutsche Grammophon, including works by Chopin, Beethoven, and Ravel, have been critically acclaimed, earning several prestigious awards. Throughout his career, Pogorelich has performed with leading orchestras and conductors worldwide, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the classical music scene. His distinctive style, characterized by meticulous attention to detail, emotional intensity, and technical mastery, has garnered both admiration and criticism, cementing his reputation as a polarizing but undeniably influential artist. In addition to his performance career, Pogorelich is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting young musicians through competitions and scholarships. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including the passing of his wife in 1996, Pogorelich's dedication to his art remains unwavering, contributing significantly to the world of classical piano music.