Menahem Pressler was a German-born Israeli-American was a world-renowned pianist, best known for his work with the Beaux Arts Trio and was widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of his generation. Pressler began playing the piano at a young age, and after fleeing Nazi Germany in 1939, he settled in Israel where he continued his musical studies. His career was began after he won first prize at the Debussy International Piano Competition in San Francisco in 1946. Subsequently Pressler's i... moreMenahem Pressler was a German-born Israeli-American was a world-renowned pianist, best known for his work with the Beaux Arts Trio and was widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of his generation. Pressler began playing the piano at a young age, and after fleeing Nazi Germany in 1939, he settled in Israel where he continued his musical studies. His career was began after he won first prize at the Debussy International Piano Competition in San Francisco in 1946. Subsequently Pressler's international career as a pianist took off in the 1950s, and he went on to perform with many of the world's leading orchestras and conductors. He was particularly known for his interpretations of chamber music, and was a founding member of the Beaux Arts Trio, one of the most celebrated and influential chamber ensembles of the 20th century. With the trio, Pressler recorded numerous albums and performed in major concert halls around the world. Throughout his career, Pressler was widely recognized for his contributions to the world of music. He received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor in 2007, and received lifetime achievement awards from Gramophone magazine, the International Classical Music Awards, ECHO Classic in Germany and Les Victoires de la Musique Classique in France. He was also a dedicated teacher and mentor to many young musicians.
