Widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of his time, Radu Lupu passed away on April 17, 2022.
Born in Galați, Romania, Lupu began studying piano at the age of six and went on to win three of the world’s most prestigious piano competitions: the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition (1966), the George Enescu International Piano Competition (1967), and the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition (1969).
A renowned interpreter of great composers — Brahms, Mozart, Grieg — he is perhaps best known for his insightful recordings of Schubert and Beethoven.
In a professional career which spanned just over 20 years, the pianist made over 20 recordings for Decca Records, two of which were nominated for Grammy Awards and winning one in 1996 for the Schubert piano sonatas.
Radu Lupu was 76 years old.
We are deeply saddened to find out about the death of Maestro Radu Lupu, a dear friend of the Enescu Festival and a magnificent musician!🖤
— Enescu Festival (@Enescu_Festival) April 18, 2022
The incredible Romanian pianist and composer won, in 1967, the grand prize of the George Enescu International Competition. pic.twitter.com/QoR87W6ZcB
Devastated to hear that Radu Lupu has left us. Not only one of the greatest, warmest, most profound musicians I've ever heard, but also a deeply kind, compassionate, modest and humorous man - and a wonderful friend. He was ready to go, true; but he'll still be desperately missed. pic.twitter.com/s4X4qeXRTz
— Steven Isserlis (@StevenIsserlis) April 18, 2022