Magic Moments of Music: Martha Argerich in Warsaw
The Chopin Competition victory that helped make this legendary pianist a household name
Cast
Program notes
It’s 1965. In Warsaw, Poland, the latest edition of the prestigious International Frédéric Chopin Competition is taking place. Among the world’s rising young pianists, one candidate stands out and dazzles the audience and jury with her exceptional playing, remarkable technique, and deep emotional insight: Martha Argerich, then aged 24. Facing her, Brazilian Arthur Moreira Lima also delivers a compelling performance and proves to be a formidable opponent. Their confrontation thrills the audience and ends in a magnificent victory for Argerich, who wins three prizes, including the gold medal. This historic moment marks the birth of a living piano legend, whose career will have a lasting influence on the world music scene.
Pianists Daniel Barenboim, Rafał Blechacz, Gabriela Montero, Sophie Pacini, and Arthur Moreira Lima, her competitor, as well as violinist Gidon Kremer, look back on the major event for this episode of the Magic Moments of Music series and reflect fondly on the exceptional career of this phenomenal artist.
