The Legacy of Rosina Lhevinne

In this film we will learn how Rosina Lhevinne’s career blossomed after age 65, as she taught such now world-famous pupils as John Browning, Van Cliburn, Misha Dichter, James Levine, Hiroko Nakamura, Kun Woo Paik, Daniel Pollack, Jeffrey Siegel, and John Williams. They recount how Lhevinne profoundly influenced them with her 19th century pianistic tradition, inspired them with her humanity, and encouraged them to develop their individuality. Rosina Lhevinne's remarkable solo performing career began at age 75 and climaxed at age 82 when she made her spectacular debut with the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Leonard Bernstein, playing Chopin's Piano Concerto in E minor. This extraordinarily beautiful performance, as well as her previously unreleased chamber music recordings, is heard throughout the film. The Lhevinne story is told in her own words through informal conversations, recording sessions, archival film and teaching footage. Adding a special dimension are her students' performances and many insightful interviews with her colleagues: pianist Arthur Rubinstein, musicologist Nicolas Slonimsky, violinist Robert Mann, and her daughter Marianna Lhevinne Graham. Lhevinne's passion for life and music infuses the documentary, educating and inspiring the viewer. The Legacy of Rosina Lhevinne stands as a testament to the resiliency of the human spirit and its ability to endure, transform, nurture and flourish.