Ivan Moravec

Czech pianist Ivan Moravec's firm, pearlescent legato and the intelligent use of his hands formed the basis for a unique sound. Moravec made his formal debut, a small recital on a radio broadcast in 1946. In 1957 Moravec learned more about surmounting the mechanical reality of his instrument and producing a flowing legato sound from Michelangeli. Moravec made his London debut in 1959 and his New York debut in 1964. He developed a following among those who valued musical integrity, beautiful sound, and a devotion to a conservative but full repertory. Smetana and Dvorák, held a central position among the composers he played regularly, which also included Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, Brahms, Debussy, and Ravel, and he was considered one of the foremost Chopin artists of the day. A frequent, though reluctant visitor to the recording studio, Moravec placed on disc many performances prized by discerning listeners. ~ Erik Eriksson