An Era of Greatness: Arthur Rubinstein and Vladimir Horowitz in Piano Contests

For many years, I had a passionate debate with my eighth-grade English teacher about the supremacy of certain pianists. This debate stemmed from a hallway discussion that took place over six decades ago. Back then, my allegiance was firmly with Vladimir Horowitz, while Mr. Hall held steadfast in his admiration for Arthur Rubinstein. Now, after six decades and a lifetime of listening to both pianists, I’ve come to appreciate the unique qualities of each.

The concept of comparing Apple and oranges, as idiomatically expressed, was never more apt than in the realm of comparing these two magnificent musicians. Both Rubinstein and Horowitz brought their distinct personalities and interpreting styles to the grand stage of the piano contest. It is unwise to place one above the other; instead, it's more enriching to explore what each brought to the table.

Arthur Rubinstein: A Symphony of Structure and Depth

While Horowitz was known for his powerful presence and the sheer brilliance of his technique, Rubinstein possessed a unique ability to interpret pieces where structure played a significant role. Pieces such as the Chopin Polonaise-Fantasia are profound examples of Rubinstein's strength.

The Polonaise-Fantasia, with its intricate and meticulously crafted layers, demands a balance between technical perfection and emotional depth. Rubinstein's interpretation of this piece is a testament to his intellectual approach to music. He had an exceptional ability to dissect complex passages and deliver a performance that was technically flawless yet emotionally profound.

Vladimir Horowitz: Emotion and Virtuosity

Conversely, when it comes to pieces that are more about expression and emotion, Horowitz reigns supreme. The Chopin G Minor Ballade and the B flat Minor Sonata are prime examples of interpretations that require a deep emotional commitment. Horowitz’s performances captured the essence of Chopin's turbulent emotional state, making the listeners feel every nuance of the composer's inner turmoil.

Technical Proficiency and Emotional Commitment

Henderson (1997) describes Horowitz as 'a colossal figure in the world of classical music' and explains how his technical proficiency overshadowed many of his contemporaries. However, it is Horowitz's emotional commitment that sets him apart. His ability to convey the deepest emotions through the piano, whether it was the delicate trills of the G Minor Ballade or the bold and dynamic rhythms of the B flat Minor Sonata, is unparalleled.

Respecting Individual Styles

It's essential to recognize that each musician brings their unique style and interpretation to the piano. Comparing Rubinstein and Horowitz is akin to comparing different types of music - they are both good and wonderful in their own right. Embracing and respecting the individual styles of both Rubinstein and Horowitz enriches our understanding of piano performance and music interpretation in general.

Selecting the "Beast" in a Piano Contest

In a hypothetical piano contest between Rubinstein and Horowitz, one could say that the "beast" would be Rubinstein for the aforementioned reasons. However, it's crucial to remember that both are phenomenal in their way. The contest would be a study of how each pianist can interpret and bring to life different pieces with their unique strengths.

Ultimately, the realm of piano performance is vast, and each performer offers a unique contribution. Whether it's Rubinstein's structural integrity or Horowitz's emotional depth, these aspects make them both equally valuable and essential in the world of classical music.

Conclusion

Arthur Rubinstein and Vladimir Horowitz were both great pianists who contributed immensely to the world of classical music. While they brought different strengths to the table, both musicians left indelible marks on the history of piano performance. The debate on who would win in a piano contest between these two legends is ultimately inconsequential. What matters is the enduring beauty of their performances and the everlasting impact they had on concertgoers and classical music enthusiasts alike.