The complete HMV recordings (1934-1936)

Featuring

Simon Barere
Franz Liszt
Frédéric Chopin
Mily Balakirev
Felix Blumenfeld
Alexander Glazunov

Alexander Scriabin
Leopold Godowsky
Robert Schumann

Did you know?

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Performer Biography

Barere practiced very little throughout his life, often quitting piano playing for weeks before a Carnegie Hall recital to avoid becoming 'musically and emotionally stale'.

Recording & Production

Simon Barere's HMV recordings were originally released under the name 'Simon Barer'; he later requested an extra 'e' be added for correct pronunciation.

Performer Biography

Alexander Glazunov, the enlightened Director of the Imperial Conservatory, protected Barere from regulations preventing Jews from gaining entrance and from compulsory Army conscription.

Performer Biography

Simon Barere, a 'super-pianist' of his era, was known for his formidable virtuosity but remained a modest and self-effacing figure throughout his life.

Performer Biography

Barere's musical talent was recognized early, and he helped support his family from age eleven by playing in silent movie houses, Jewish bands, and restaurants.

Performer Biography

Barere's British debut in January 1934 at the Aeolian Hall created such a stir that he was immediately invited to record for HMV.

Performer Biography

Upon graduating, Barere received the prestigious Rubinstein Prize and Glazunov's endorsement: 'Barere is Franz Liszt in one hand and Anton Rubinstein in the other'.