English & Literature

Who is Glenn Gould from The Great Pianists and what is their importance?

Asked by
Last updated by Cat
1 Answers
Log in to answer

Glenn Gould was a Canadian pianist who brought a new approach to playing Bach in 1955. His recorded "Goldberg Variations" combined personality, ideas, bouncing rhythm, and fast tempos. Gould became a legend because he revolted against authority and showed contempt for the Establishment to become "the most stimulating musician of his time." Gould was born in 1932, began playing at three, was taught by his mother till ten, when he attended Toronto's Royal Conservatory, and never finished high school. He was a concert pianist for nine years and a superstar playing in Europe, Israel, Russia, and the United States. He retired at thirty-two in 1964 and died in 1982 at fifty. He would not shake hands because he feared contamination and wore a sweater even on the hottest days. He was eccentric, reclusive and a hypochondriac, which made him a publicity target. Gould's style of Bach interpretations breathed life and spirit into his history.