We are delighted to share with you Piano Talks’ special episode featuring major Russian-born pianist and conductor Vladimir Feltsman.
Feltsman debuted with the Moscow Philharmonic at the age of 11 and attracted attention from the West at an early age as a prodigious talent.
In 1979, because of his growing discontent with the restrictions on artistic freedom under the Soviet regime, Feltsman signaled his intention to emigrate by applying for an exit visa. In response, he was immediately banned from performing in public and his recordings were suppressed.
After eight years of virtual artistic exile, pressure from the West finally helped gain his release in 1987. Upon his arrival in the United States, Feltsman was warmly greeted at the White House, where he performed his first recital in North America. That same year, his debut at Carnegie Hall established him as a major pianist on the American and international scene….