András Schiff

**András Schiff: Pianist Biography**

András Schiff, born December 21, 1953, in Budapest, Hungary, is an acclaimed pianist renowned for his profound interpretations of classical and romantic repertoire. Schiff began piano lessons at the age of five with Elisabeth Vadász and later studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music under Pál Kadosa, György Kurtág, and Ferenc Rados, alongside studying composition with Imre Vincze. Schiff’s international career gained momentum after winning first prize at the Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in Moscow in 1974 and the Leeds International Piano Competition in 1975. These victories paved the way for his debut performances with major orchestras and at prominent concert halls worldwide. Schiff is particularly celebrated for his interpretations of works by Bach, Beethoven, Schubert, and Schumann. His performances and recordings of Bach’s keyboard works, including the "Goldberg Variations" and "The Well-Tempered Clavier," are considered benchmarks in the classical music community. His complete cycles of Beethoven’s piano sonatas and Schubert’s major piano works have also garnered critical acclaim for their intellectual depth and artistic insight.

In addition to his solo career, Schiff is a distinguished conductor and chamber musician. He has worked with leading orchestras such as the Philharmonia Orchestra, the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, and the Budapest Festival Orchestra, often conducting from the keyboard. His chamber music collaborations include performances with notable musicians like violinist Yuuko Shiokawa and cellist Miklós Perényi. A committed educator, Schiff regularly gives masterclasses and lectures, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for music with younger generations. He is also known for his outspoken views on political and cultural issues, particularly those concerning Hungary. Schiff has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Grammy Award, the Mozart Medal, and a knighthood from the British Empire (KBE) in 2014 for his services to music. His recordings have won international acclaim, cementing his reputation as one of the foremost pianists and musicians of his time. Schiff continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his profound musicality, intellectual rigor, and unwavering dedication to the art of piano performance.