cover image Remembering Horowitz: 125 Pianists Recall a Legend

Remembering Horowitz: 125 Pianists Recall a Legend

. Schirmer G Books, $35 (383pp) ISBN 978-0-02-870676-4

``In my lifetime, he was the pianist that every other pianist was fascinated by; they hated or loved him--but indifferent, never!'' recalls Garrick Ohlsson in this collection of reminiscences of the legendary pianist who died in 1989 at the age of 86. The 125 original essays, edited by Dubal ( Evenings with Horowitz ), are written by some of the world's major pianists, pieces that range from the few lines of simple appreciation by Mieczyslaw Horszowsky to the carefully thought-out analyses of Horowitz's unique pianistic abilities by Emanuel Ax and Russell Sherman. Personal anecdotes by pianists who knew Horowitz, especially those who played for or studied with him, add to the appeal of this intriguing book, which reveals much about the genius of a great artist and also offers insights into the way pianists listen to other pianists. Perhaps no one will ever define satisfactorily just what made Horowitz's playing so special, but these essays help to re-create the magic spell he cast over his audiences. A CD of Dubal's interviews with Horowitz is included. Photos not seen by PW. (Oct.)