Josef Hofmann plays Rubinstein Melody in F (1923 rec.)

Anton Rubinstein (1829-1894):
Deux Mélodies pour le piano, Op.3: no. 1 in F major (Moderato)
Josef Hofmann (1876-1957), piano
Recorded in 1923
"I recall that Rubinstein once said to me:
'Do you know why piano-playing is so difficult? Because it is prone to be either affected or else afflicted with mannerisms; and when these two pitfalls are luckily avoided then it is liable to be -- dry! The truth lies between those three mischiefs!'"
Josef Hofmann

[@andrewharrison8975]

It’s hard to believe this is an acoustic recording, so good is it. A model of legato playing, and what rubato!

[@jesusruiz3832]

Can you hear? It is a precious piece of a past lost forever.

[@r.i.p.volodya]

Such subtle playing - x2 volumes in one hand - a singing melody but distant chords at the same time - model playing 😁

[@marcelobrunorodrigues7630]

Many thanks for posting this so beautiful work that I like to play at home! The recording is simply magnificient in all aspects, including the quality! 100 years ago!

[@adamobarca]

beautiful rendition of this song. absolutely beautiful.

[@FransWentholt]

Perdect! Thanks, Pianopera.

[@paulostroff99]

Awesome playing. TY Erwin for posting.

[@straycat316]

Precious.

[@hymntonight]

Sweet upload!

[@paulprocopolis]

Lovely tone, phrasing and rubato - I'm sure Hofmann's teacher would have approved! Does the last photograph show Hofmann with his son??

[@noblerkin]

Yes

[@paulprocopolis]

@Jaewon Shin Yes

[@Cayres18]

Rubinstein Anton, teacher of Hofmann.

[@readpaperbackbooks]

No, the last photo isn’t Hofmann’s son. That is 100% Ruth Slenczynska. Hofmann taught her and welcomed her to the Curtis Institute of Music where she studied as a child.

[@pianopera]

@@readpaperbackbooks You are correct - it's Slenczynska indeed.

[@vladimirhorowitz9396]

Oh...