Glenn Gould

Date of Birth: September 25, 1932

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: October 4, 1982

Biography

Glenn Herbert Gould was a Canadian pianist renowned for his unique interpretations of classical music, particularly the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Gould demonstrated prodigious musical talent from an early age. He studied at the Royal Conservatory of Music, where he excelled in piano, organ, and theory. Gould’s career took off in the 1950s after his groundbreaking recording of Bach’s Goldberg Variations in 1955, which remains one of the most celebrated piano recordings of the 20th century. Known for his eccentric behavior, Gould retired from concert performances in 1964 at the age of 32, opting to focus on recording, writing, and broadcasting. He was a prolific intellectual, contributing essays and radio documentaries that explored a wide range of musical and philosophical topics. Gould passed away in 1982, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence musicians and music lovers around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Glenn Gould

1. Glenn Gould was known for his distinctive humming while playing the piano, which can often be heard in his recordings.

2. He was a hypochondriac and had an extensive list of idiosyncrasies, including wearing gloves year-round and avoiding physical contact with others.

3. Gould’s interpretation of classical works was often controversial, as he would take liberties with tempo and dynamics that diverged from traditional performances.

4. After retiring from live performances, Gould became an advocate for the potential of recording technology, believing it allowed for a more perfect realization of musical works.

5. Gould produced a series of experimental radio documentaries known as the “Solitude Trilogy,” which delve into themes of isolation and the human experience.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Glenn Gould

1. “The purpose of art is not the release of a momentary ejection of adrenaline but is, rather, the gradual, lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity.”

2. “I detest audiences. Not in their individual components but en masse I detest audiences. I think they are a force of evil.”

3. “The justification of art is the internal combustion it ignites in the hearts of men, and not its shallow, externalized, public manifestations.”

4. “I believe that the best persona for the artist is one that enables him to be invisible.”

5. “The trouble with too much improvisation is that it may lead to a kind of artistic anarchy, where the composer’s intentions are wholly disregarded.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Glenn Gould’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $1 million, a significant amount for a classical musician of his time.