Leon Fleisher

Leon Fleisher (born July 23, 1928) is an American pianist and conductor.

Related Topics:
July 23 - 1928 - American - Pianist - Conductor

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He was born in San Francisco, California, where he started studying the piano at age 4. He made his public debut at age 8 and played with the New York Philharmonic under Pierre Monteux at 16. He studied with Artur Schnabel.

Related Topics:
San Francisco - New York Philharmonic - Pierre Monteux - Artur Schnabel

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He made a memorable series of recordings with George Szell and the Cleveland Orchestra before losing the use of his right hand due to repetitive stress disorder, or, as National Geographic claims, focal dystonia. He continued performing the left-handed repertoire until he quite recently regained the use of his right hand through the injection of botox. He also undertook conducting during this time. He is particularly well-known for his interpretations of the piano concerti of Brahms and Beethoven.

Related Topics:
George Szell - Cleveland Orchestra - Repetitive stress disorder - National Geographic - Focal dystonia - Botox - Piano concerti - Brahms - Beethoven

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He has continued to be involved in music, both conducting and teaching at the Peabody Conservatory of Music.

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