A Centennial Celebration for Ruth Slenczynska, the Last Living Pupil of Sergei Rachmaninov
Centenarian pianist Ruth Slenczynska, Rachmaninov's last devoted student, remains alive today
Ruth Slenczynska, a renowned American pianist and the last living pupil of the legendary Sergei Rachmaninov, is still enchanting audiences across the globe with her piano skills. Born in California in 1925 to Polish immigrants, Slenczynska's musical journey began at an early age, making her concert debut at the tender age of four.
Slenczynska's studies with Rachmaninov in 1925 marked a significant turning point in her life. This connection has been instrumental in shaping her interpretive style, which reflects the teachings of her great master. Her career as a concert pianist and teacher has been marked by a legacy that mirrors the teachings of her masters, and she has influenced later generations of pianists, maintaining a direct pedagogical lineage to Rachmaninov.
Slenczynska's career highlights include performing at prestigious events such as President John F. Kennedy's inauguration and a Mozart duet with President Harry S. Truman. She has also graced the stages of Europe, making her European concert debut in Berlin at the age of six. More recently, she played at the Chopin International Festival and Friends in October 2021.
Slenczynska's album, My Life in Music, released in March 2022 on Decca Classics in conjunction with Universal Music Australia, offers a journey through her life's music. The album explores the music of Chopin, Debussy, Grieg, Bach, and others, providing a glimpse into her musical journey.
When asked about her album, Slenczynska said, "Music is meant to bring joy. If mine still brings joy to people, then it is doing what it is supposed to do." This sentiment is evident in her performances, which continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Slenczynska's influence extends beyond her performances, as her students continue to teach and carry forward her musical heritage. This was evident in the centennial celebration held in her honour at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2025, which featured concerts, masterclasses, lectures, and exhibits, emphasizing her lasting impact on music and piano pedagogy.
Slenczynska's connection to Rachmaninov is not just professional but personal as well. She once stepped in for the great Russian musician at the last minute when he was unable to perform due to an injury. As a testament to their bond, Slenczynska was gifted a Fabergé egg necklace by Rachmaninov.
In summary, Ruth Slenczynska is a crucial link to Rachmaninov’s pianistic and interpretive tradition, with a lifetime devoted to performing and teaching that heritage. Her centennial recognition and continued influence on students underscore her importance in the classical piano world.
- Ruth Slenczynska's album, My Life in Music, is a testament to her lifetime of music, featuring a variety of composers including Chopin, Debussy, Grieg, and Bach.
- Slenczynska's performances are refreshingly joyful, reflecting her belief that music is meant to bring joy to its audience, a sentiment that shines through in her centennial celebration and her influence in the classical piano world.
