Gary Graffman was born on October 14, 1928, in New York. His parents, both of Russian-Jewish origin, noticed his talent for the piano at a very young age. By the time he was three years old, it was clear that Graffman had a natural gift for music.
At the age of seven, Graffman began studying under Isabelle Vengerova at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music. This early training laid the foundation for his future success as a classical pianist.
Throughout his career, Graffman gained recognition for his exceptional skill and musicality. One of his most notable recordings was George Gershwin's "Rhapsody In Blue," which was featured in Woody Allen's film Manhattan in 1979. This recording solidified Graffman's reputation as a world-class musician.
In 1979, Graffman faced a significant challenge when he suffered a sprain in his right ring finger. This injury, possibly caused by focal dystonia, forced him to stop using his right hand completely. Despite this setback, Graffman persevered and continued to make music using only his left hand.
Throughout his career, Graffman collaborated with many renowned musicians, including conductor Leonard Bernstein. In 1964, he and Bernstein recorded Sergei Rachmaninoff's "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" with the New York Philharmonic, further showcasing Graffman's versatility and talent.
Gary Graffman's contributions to classical music continue to be celebrated to this day. His recordings and performances have inspired generations of musicians and music lovers around the world. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Graffman's dedication to his craft and his unwavering passion for music have solidified his place as a true legend in the world of classical music.
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