Martha Argerich, 83, remains one of the world’s most astonishing pianists. After an electrifying performance in Switzerland, she avoided the crowd, slipping outside for a cigarette. Despite her enduring talent, she remains self-critical, reflecting on her career and recalling a warning from a conductor in Buenos Aires about playing Schumann’s concerto.
Argerich defies aging, still mastering difficult compositions with agility. She describes seeing “new colors and dimensions” in familiar pieces. While known for her mystique, she avoids contracts, rarely gives solo performances, and keeps a private life. Fellow pianist Yuja Wang calls her a “pure goddess” for her captivating performances.
Born in Argentina, Argerich’s musical journey began at age three. Moving to Europe as a teen, she trained under Friedrich Gulda before winning the Chopin Competition in 1965. Despite personal struggles, including a period of depression and distancing from her first child, she returned to prominence.
She remains active, playing over 80 engagements last year. However, she has distanced herself from U.S. performances, partly due to controversies surrounding her ex-husband Charles Dutoit. Recently, she has voiced political concerns and supported fellow musicians facing hardship.
After a health scare in Arizona, she felt a deeper connection to aging colleagues like cellist Mischa Maisky, whom she helped return to the stage. Despite doubts about the future, Argerich continues to mesmerize audiences worldwide.
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