Beatrice Rana: How Pollini transformed my life through music
In the wake of Maurizio Pollini’s passing, acclaimed pianist Beatrice Rana pays tribute to the man who changed the history of music and her own personal journey through music. The young musician from Salento took to her Facebook profile to share a memory from the spring of 2007. “May 2007. It was one of the many long and beautiful car journeys with my father to attend masterclasses, concerts, or competitions… The journey from Lecce was always endless, and before every departure, my father would stock up on CDs to listen to along the way. That time, he chose an all-Pollini selection for the trip.”
During their journey, Beatrice Rana listened to the CD of Schumann, featuring Davidsbündlertänze and the concerto without orchestra, Prokofiev/Stravinsky/Boulez (“the one with Petrushka, to be precise”), and the legendary album of the complete Chopin studies. “At the end of listening to the concerto without orchestra, I remember being completely moved to tears by the experience of such insatiable fire, of a telluric temperament, of such an architectural vision of a piece that I am madly in love with thanks to him.”
This anecdote illustrates the profound impact that Maurizio Pollini had on Beatrice Rana’s life and artistic development. His music not only touched her emotionally but also influenced her understanding and interpretation of classical pieces. Pollini’s exceptional talent and his ability to convey raw emotions through his performances left a lasting impression on Rana.
Maurizio Pollini was a true giant of the keyboard, known for his technical prowess and deep musicality. He was revered by audiences and fellow musicians alike for his interpretations of composers such as Beethoven, Chopin, and Debussy. His dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of perfection made him one of the most respected and admired pianists of our time.
For Beatrice Rana, Pollini’s music became a source of inspiration and a guiding light in her own musical journey. His ability to bring out the essence of a composition and his unwavering commitment to musical excellence became a benchmark for Rana’s own performances. With each note she plays, she carries the legacy of Pollini and strives to emulate his passion and precision.
It is through encounters like these, where a young musician discovers a profound connection with a great artist, that the true power of music is revealed. The ability of music to transcend time and space, to touch the depths of our souls, and to shape our lives is a testament to its universal language.
As we bid farewell to Maurizio Pollini, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind and the lives he has touched through his music. Beatrice Rana’s personal experience is just one example of the profound impact that Pollini had on the world of classical music and the artists who continue to carry his torch. May his music continue to inspire future generations and shape the history of music for years to come.