Valentin Gheorghiu, an esteemed Romanian pianist and composer who left an indelible mark on classical music over eight decades of career was laid to rest yesterday at 95 years old. His prolific legacy will long remain.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 21, 1928, in Galati, Romania, Gheorghiu was a child prodigy. His remarkable journey in music started under the tutelage of Constanța Erbiceanu at the Bucharest Academy of Music and later with Lazare Lévy at the Conservatoire National de Musique in Paris. His mentors also included notable teachers at the Royal Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in Bucharest such as Mihail Jora, Constanta Erbiceanu, Mihail Andricu, and Constantin Brailoiu.
A Flourishing Career
Gheorghiu’s solo debut occurred in 1943 at the Romanian Athenaeum. At this performance, he won over audiences with Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, performed alongside George Georgescu conducting the Philharmonic. Over his long and celebrated career he held organist positions at St Joseph Catholic Cathedral of Bucharest as well as concert soloist roles within George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra.
Formation of the Romanian Trio
Valentin Gheorghiu was also part of the acclaimed Romanian Trio, alongside violinist Ştefan Gheorghiu and cellist Radu Aldulescu. The trio’s exemplary performance of George Enescu’s third sonata earned them the first prize at the inaugural George Enescu International Competition in 1958.
Accolades and Recognition
Gheorghiu’s exceptional compositions garnered him several prestigious awards. He was awarded the “George Enescu” Prize by the Romanian Academy for his Concerto for Piano and Orchestra. The Union of Romanian Composers and Musicologists (UCMR) also awarded him the Grand Prize in 2020, recognizing his immense contributions to music.
His talent was widely acknowledged by music luminaries. George Enescu, a Romanian composer and violinist, once described Gheorghiu as a “talent to be closely watched,” cementing his reputation as a formidable pianist.
Final Days and Legacy
Gheorghiu died at an unknown cause of his passing away; nevertheless, his legacy will live on in classical music circles for generations to come.
On Tuesday, funeral arrangements for Romanian Athenaeum President Ion Alexandrescu have been disclosed; his coffin will be placed in its foyer so people may pay their last respects and leave flowers or pay respect. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday at the Chapel of the Bellu Orthodox Cemetery.
The music world mourns the loss of this eminent artist. Gheorghiu’s talent and passion for music left an indelible mark on Romanian music history. His musical journey, the fruits of his composition, and his mastery on the piano will continue to inspire future generations of musicians. May his soul rest in peace.
