Interartists mourns legendary pianist Menahem Pressler

Magdeburg-born Menahem Pressler died on 6 May 2023 in London at the age of 99

Incredible long career

Menahem came to Interartists with the Beaux Arts Trio, which he had founded in 1955 and with which he was associated for 50 years with heart and soul. In old age, he turned his focus to solo playing and was very successful at it. For instance, he made his debut with the Concertgebouw Orchestra in the week of his 90th birthday.

In April/May 2018, he gave his last concerts in the Netherlands. Together with his beloved Schumann Quartet, he played Cesar Franck's piano quartet at Tivoli-Vredenburg and the Concertgebouw. It was the very first time he performed this raging virtuoso work. From this period is also the beautiful video recording of Debussy's Claire de Lune made by Podium Witteman (NTR). Then, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Fontys Conservatorium Tilburg, Pressler played a full recital in series Royal Souvenir des Montagnards and gave a master class to Fontys students.

Menahem Pressler was much loved by Dutch chamber music audiences, who always hung on his every word when he announced his encore or when he gave master classes.

Loving memory

Many of our musicians participated in these master classes and keep fond memories of them. With the help of his great love Lady Annabelle Weidenfeld, he was able to teach until the last moment.

We remember the after concert parties with Menahem, where he shared with us the important lessons which he has learned and where he entertained us with his humor. My favorite story was about his meeting with Alma Mahler.

He remains in our loving memory