In cooperation with the Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition
Lecture by: music lecturer and critic Omer Shomroni
In 1975, the 88-year-old pianist Arthur Rubinstein decided to leave a gift to the world by playing Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 one last time. Rubinstein, who was gradually going blind, arrived in London – where he made his debut 63 years earlier.
The film documents Rubinstein’s special concert with the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by André Previn (also featured in a film at the festival). It also traces Rubinstein’s life story, introduces us to his unique family – his wife and daughter alongside Annabelle Whitestone, who was 57 younger than Rubinstein, and includes rare archival footage.
During this final performance, Rubinstein, as usual, sits upright, hands outstretched to the piano, always in control. At age 90, the greatest interpreter of Chopin’s music is captivating as ever.
