José Iturbi was born on November 28, 1895 in Valencia, Spain. From a young age, he showed immense talent and passion for music. He began playing the piano at the age of three and quickly demonstrated a natural gift for the instrument.
Iturbi's career as a musician truly began when he became the accompanist for Spanish violinist Manuel Quiroga on international tours from 1911 until 1937. During this time, he honed his skills as a pianist and gained valuable experience performing in front of diverse audiences around the world.
Iturbi's talent and charisma eventually caught the attention of film producers in Hollywood, and he made his acting debut in the 1940 film "Anchors Aweigh." This role marked the beginning of a successful career in film, with Iturbi appearing in several 1940s MGM musicals, including "Thousands Cheer."
In 1916, José Iturbi married María Giner de los Santos. The couple had a daughter, also named María. Tragically, María passed away in 1928, leaving Iturbi devastated. Despite this personal loss, Iturbi continued to focus on his music career, finding solace in his passion for music.
After his passing, Iturbi's memory was honored through the establishment of the José Iturbi Foundation, which supports talented young musicians. Additionally, two prestigious music competitions were named in his honor: the Valencia International Piano Competition Prize Iturbi and the José Iturbi International Music Competition.
In conclusion, José Iturbi's remarkable career as a musician and performer left a lasting impact on the world of music. His talent, passion, and dedication to his craft continue to inspire aspiring musicians today.
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