366 | Arthur Rubinstein

Arthur Rubinstein was born on January 28, 1887, in Łódź, then part of the Russian Empire (now Poland), into a Jewish family. He began speaking unusually late, which worried his parents. Soon, however, it became clear that his silence was not a sign of delay, but of deep concentration: he proved to be a musical prodigy.

At a young age, he played for the famous violinist Joseph Joachim, who was so impressed that he took Rubinstein under his wing. At just ten years old, Arthur was sent to Berlin to study piano seriously—an enormous step for such a young child.

As a young pianist, Rubinstein traveled throughout Europe and later the United States. Although technically brilliant, success did not come immediately. He struggled with financial problems, self-doubt, and periods of deep depression. At a low point in his twenties, he even contemplated suicide, but music sustained him. Later, he said he decided not only to survive, but to live life intensely.

In the 1920s and 1930s, Rubinstein rose to fame. His playing was poetic, warm in tone, and naturally musical. While some pianists impressed with sheer technical skill, Rubinstein sounded as if he were telling stories at the piano. He was widely regarded as the ultimate interpreter of Frédéric Chopin, though his performances of Rachmaninoff and Beethoven are also legendary.

Here are some of his most iconic performances and recordings:

• Chopin Recitals (1964):His recording in Australia, featuring works such as the Polonaise in A-flat major, Op. 53 (“Heroic”) and De Falla’s Ritual Fire Dance, is considered a highlight.
• Chopin Nocturnes: His complete recordings of Chopin’s nocturnes are often regarded as the definitive interpretations.
• Beethoven Sonatas (1960/1978): Rubinstein won Grammy Awards for his interpretations of Beethoven, particularly the Waldstein Sonata  No. 21 and Sonata No. 18. 
• Chopin Pianoconcert nr. 2: A highly praised recording showcasing both his virtuosity and emotional depth.
• Rachmaninov Pianoconcert No. 3: Rubinstein was known for his powerful performances of this technically demanding work.

During World War II, Rubinstein lost many family members in the Holocaust. This tragedy deeply affected him and shaped his moral compass. He decided never to perform in Germany again, out of respect for the victims. At the same time, he continued to believe in humanity, culture, and beauty despite the suffering he had witnessed.

In addition to being one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, Rubinstein was a charismatic bon vivant who loved life. His engaging personality, charm, and wit made him beloved by fellow musicians and audiences alike. He once said he did not have enough hours in the day for everything he wanted to do: live, love, and play the piano. He continued performing well into old age. In his final years, he became physically weaker and largely blind, but he remained mentally sharp and deeply involved in music until shortly before his death.

Arthur Rubinstein passed away on December 20, 1982, in Geneva, Switzerland, at the age of 95. He was buried in Jerusalem, in the Rubinstein Forest, an area dedicated in his honor.

This autobiography is famous for its witty, candid, and sometimes shamelessly honest tone.