Sviatoslav Richter Quotes

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The interpreter is really an executant, carrying out the composer's intentions to the letter. He doesn't add anything that isn't already in the work. If he is talented, he allows us to glimpse the truth of the work that is in itself a thing of genius and that is reflected in him. He shouldn't dominate the music, but should dissolve into it.

Sviatoslav Richter

I am not a complete idiot, but whether from weakness or laziness have no talent for thinking. I know only how to reflect: I am a mirror... Logic does not exist for me. I float on the waves of art and life and never really know how to distinguish what belongs to the one or the other or what is common to both. Life unfolds for me like a theatre presenting a sequence of somewhat unreal sentiments; while the things of art are real to me and go straight to my heart.

Sviatoslav Richter

Sviatoslav Richter

Sviatoslav Richter

Born: March 20, 1915

Died: August 1, 1997 (aged 82)

Bio: Sviatoslav Teofilovich Richter was a Russian pianist known for the depth of his interpretations, virtuoso technique, and vast repertoire. He is considered one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century.

Known for:

Richter a Prague
The Essential Richter (1996)
Richter Rediscovered: Carnegie Hall Recital
Richter in Paris

Sviatoslav Richter on Wikipedia

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