José Iturbi

José Iturbi was a dynamic and often controversial Spanish pianist and conductor whose remarkable career left a lasting impact on the world of classical music. Born on November 28, 1895, in Valencia, Spain, Iturbi was a piano prodigy, captivating audiences with his talent by the age of seven. He honed his skills at the Conservatoire de Musique in Paris, later becoming the head of the piano department at the Geneva Conservatory at just 24 years old. His London debut in 1928 was followed by a triumphant performance of Beethoven's G Major Concerto in Philadelphia, conducted by Leopold Stokowski.

In 1933, Iturbi expanded his musical repertoire by taking up conducting, leading the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and debuting in opera in 1959. His popularity soared, attracting a diverse audience, including the youth of the 1950s who were drawn to classical music through his charisma. Notably, he became the first classical musician to earn two gold records, with RCA-Victor paying him $118,029 in 1946 for his recording of Chopin's Polonaise in A-Flat, which sold two million copies by 1974.

Iturbi’s larger-than-life personality was exemplified by his love for speed, whether on motorbikes or in the air, earning him the nickname "the flying fool." His fiery temperament often led to memorable incidents, such as walking off stage due to audience distractions and refusing to share the stage with jazz musicians. Despite these controversies, his film appearances, including in MGM musicals like "Anchors Aweigh" (1945), showcased his versatility. Iturbi passed away on June 28, 1980, in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering figure in classical music.