Menahem Pressler got his break by winning a 1946 Debussy Competition in San Francisco.
For his 90th birthday, the Ebène Quartet sprang him a surprise performance of the Andantino movement. Just watch the expressions on Menahem’s face.
New video: A Debussy winner, 90, is treated to his masterly quartet
- By Norman Lebrecht
- on February 28, 2014
thanks for sharing such precious moments with us all!
I can only say that I have never heard this movement played better. Exquisite. Incredible subtlety of the finest nuances and so very moving. I did feel a little sorry for the wonderful Menahem sitting there his, no doubt absolutely genuine emotional reactions as a sort of public performance.
FanTAStic music!!!!
If everyone played like that, the industry wouldn’t be in the state it is today. The current sonic suckage just doesn’t cut it.
What better tribute to Menahem, the Olympian of Chamber Music! PS breathtaking performance of the quartet, what an ensemble!
Seeing Manahem’s beatific punim as he kvells over this rich performance, I recall the concerts we did together I as guest artist with the Fine Arts Quartet and how much we enjoyed each other’s company in our tours.