Famous American Classical Musicians

Arthur Rubinstein was a Polish-American pianist counted amongst the greatest pianists of all time. He had an extensive career spanning eight decades, during which he earned much international acclaim. He played music performed by several illustrious composers and is especially remembered for his interpretation of Chopin’s music. Renowned pianists François-René Duchâble and Avi Schönfeld were his students. 

Leopold Godowsky was a renowned Polish-born American pianist, composer and teacher counted among the most highly regarded performers of his day. Notable works of the virtuoso, who was reputed for his remarkable piano technique, includes his compositions like Java Suite, Walzermasken, Passacaglia and Triakontameron; and 53 Studies on Chopin's Études, a set of 53 arrangements of Études by Frédéric Chopin.  

Grammy Award-winning German-born American pianist André Watts was the son of a Hungarian refugee mother who was also a pianist. He first gained attention with his TV performance under conductor Leonard Bernstein. He was also the first to perform a live broadcast of a solo recital on TV.

Karl Haas was a German-American radio host best remembered for hosting classical music programs like Adventures in Good Music. He was also an accomplished musicologist as well as a respected conductor and pianist. During his career, Haas was honored with prestigious awards, including two George Foster Peabody Awards. In 1997, he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame.

Rudolf Friml was a Czech-born composer of songs, piano pieces, musicals, and operettas. A fine pianist, Friml enjoyed success in the United States and UK; many of his compositions were adapted for Broadway and films. Rudolf Friml was one of the earliest inductees of the Songwriter's Hall of Fame.

Greek-born composer Maurice Abravanel was forced to study medicine initially but later dropped out to focus on music. He became the youngest conductor of New York’s Metropolitan Opera and also served as the director of the Utah Symphony Orchestra for over 3 decades. He received countless honors, including the National Medal of Arts

Florence Kirk was an American dramatic soprano best remembered for her performances in concerts and operas from 1937 to 1954. She achieved popularity after playing the roles of Donna Anna in Don Giovanni and the titular character in Verdi's Aida. Florence Kirk also sang leading roles with popular opera companies like the Metropolitan Opera.