The American was well known for his authoritative voice on the art of piano pedalling, as well as his expertise on Russian Romantic Composer Anton Rubinstein
American pianist, pedagogue, author and editor Joseph Banowetz has passed away aged 87.
Banowetz, who was teaching at the University of North Texas up until his death, studied as a young pianist in New York City with Carl Friedberg - former pupil of Clara Schumann. He continued his studies in Vienna before returning to America to continue studying at the Southern Methodist University in Texas.
Throughout his career, he performed with a host of orchestras including the St. Petersburg Philharmonic, Budapest Symphony, Shanghai Symphony, Prague and Bratislava Radio Orchestras, and many others.
His love for Anton Rubinstein was evident throughout his career. He recorded 25 albums on various labels (including Naxos, Toccata Classics and Warner Brothers), which included world-premiere recordings of all Rubinstein piano and orchestra works.
Alongside his successes as a performer, he was also a highly respected author. His most popular publications include The Pianist's Guide to Pedaling, Franz Liszt: An Introduction to the Composer and His Music, The Pianist's Book of Early Contemporary Treasures and The Performing Pianist's Guide to Fingering.
Banowetz's cause of death has not been announced.
