Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli

Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli (1920-1995) was an Italian pianist, composer and conductor widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. He studied at the Milan Conservatory, where he studied under Vincenzo Lombardi and Ettore Pozzoli. He made his debut at the age of 12 and went on to become an international star. Michelangeli was known for his passionate and poetic interpretations of the classical repertoire. His standout albums include ‘The Art of Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli’ (1994), ‘Chopin: The Complete Nocturnes’ (1982), ‘Liszt: Années de Pèlerinage’ (1969), ‘Debussy: Préludes’ (1968) and ‘Beethoven: The Piano Sonatas’ (1958). His standout songs include ‘Nocturne No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 9’, ‘Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2, ‘Moonlight’, ‘Fantaisie Impromptu in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 66’ and ‘Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43’. An interesting fact about Michelangeli is that he was very particular about the piano he used, often requesting a specific model. He was also known for his meticulous rehearsal schedule and his disdain for encores.