Wholesome story to briten your day

Ruth Slenczynska, a remarkable figure in classical music, continues to inspire and amaze even at the age of 100. As the last living pupil of the legendary Sergei Rachmaninov, Ruth’s story is a rare and extraordinary one. Not only does she carry the memories and teachings of one of history's greatest musicians, but she also embodies a timeless dedication to her craft.

Despite being a centenarian, Ruth remains active in her musical pursuits. She performed at the prestigious Chopin International Festival and Friends at the Polish embassy in New York City as recently as 2021. During the lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ruth recorded heartfelt videos to commemorate Beethoven's 250th birthday, sharing her love for music with the world.

A Century of Mastery

Incredibly, Ruth recorded and released a new album at the age of 97, My Life in Music. When the album came out, Ruth humbly reflected on her accomplishments, saying, “Whoever heard of a pianist my age making another album? Music is meant to bring joy. If mine still brings joy to people, then it is doing what it is supposed to do.”

The album is a rich and beautiful journey through Ruth’s distinguished career, featuring a mix of works from the composers who shaped her artistry. The primary focus is Chopin, whose music had a profound influence on Ruth. Her father, Josef Slenczynska, a skilled violinist, was instrumental in her development, making sure she performed all 25 Etudes by Chopin before breakfast each day. It was his discipline and love for music that laid the foundation for her unparalleled mastery. The album also includes pieces by Grieg, Debussy, and Bach, showcasing her diverse musical range.

The Wisdom of Rachmaninov

Ruth’s connection to Sergei Rachmaninov remains at the heart of her musical journey. In a video released by Decca Classics, Ruth shared a piece of wisdom she received from Rachmaninov that still resonates with her to this day. “If you don’t know something thoroughly, you can’t do anything with it,” Ruth recalled, quoting Rachmaninov’s advice.

She fondly remembered a moment when she played for him and he told her that she wasn't playing the piece at the right tempo, despite having worked on it for three weeks. “Three weeks, that’s nothing! After three years, working with it slowly, fast, until it is yours, then you can present it; but that takes time," Rachmaninov said. These words of patience and dedication left a lasting impression on Ruth, shaping her approach to music for the rest of her life.

In an even more extraordinary twist, Ruth once substituted for Rachmaninov after he was forced to cancel a performance due to an injury. The opportunity to step in for her mentor is a testament to her talent and readiness, and something that only a select few could ever claim to have experienced.

A Lifetime of Performances and Honors

Ruth’s career has been nothing short of legendary. Over the decades, she has performed for U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and Jimmy Carter. She also graced the stage with influential figures such as Truman and Empress Michiko of Japan. Her musical career is a testament to a life dedicated to excellence, discipline, and the power of music to connect people across time and borders.

Ruth Slenczynska celebrated her 100th birthday on January 15th, marking a century of musical contributions that continue to touch lives around the world. Even as the years pass, her commitment to her craft remains unwavering, and her legacy as one of the last living links to Rachmaninov ensures her place in music history for generations to come.

A Timeless Inspiration

Ruth Slenczynska’s life is a beautiful reminder of the power of music to transcend time and age. Her story is not just one of talent, but of perseverance, love for the art, and a commitment to sharing the joy that music can bring. With each performance, album, and lesson, Ruth continues to prove that age is no barrier to artistic expression, and that the music she plays will live on far beyond her years.