RIP Earl Wild (1915-2010)

As reported by his long-time companion of 38 years Michael Rolland Davis, he passed comfortably in his home in Palm Springs California after a long illness. Cause of death was congestive heart disease.

He had a wonderfully full life and was still coaching pianists up until the last week of his life. He will be greatly missed. His memoirs are scheduled to be published in a few months by Carnegie Mellon Press.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P834X6jjqps

Bump?

Have to admit I'm totally unfamiliar with his work as a composer. I think of him primarily as a performer who courageously explored less well known repertoire from the past -- the go-to guy for the Paderewski concerto or the MacDowell concerto. Which isn't fair, he recorded huge amounts of Chopin, Liszt, Beethoven.

aww, i grew up in the Springs and he was a good friend's piano instructor. also saw him perfom a few times when i was a wee little 'miner.
rip