Arthur Rubinstein

Arthur Rubinstein (1887-1982), Polish American pianist, best known as an interpreter of the romantic composers, especially of Frédéric Chopin. He was born in Łódź, Poland, and educated in Warsaw and Berlin. He made his professional debut as a child in 1901, appearing with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by his teacher, the famed Hungarian violinist Joseph Joachim.

With the German occupation of France in 1940, Rubinstein settled permanently in America, becoming a United States citizen in 1946 and later Americanizing the spelling of his name (originally Artur). He toured internationally, frequently played on the radio, and appeared on television and in motion pictures. His 1971 performance with the New York Philharmonic marked his 71st year as a performer. His autobiography appeared as My Young Years (1973) and My Many Years (1980).