As a young pianist, Ugorski faced numerous challenges. When he arrived in East Berlin as a refugee, he had no piano and lacked the means to travel to his friend’s house, where he could borrow a Steinway. However, his talent could not be contained. In a memorable incident, after being mistaken for a homeless person in a digital piano store, Ugorski captivated the staff and bystanders with his enchanting performance of “Pictures at an Exhibition” by Modest Mussorgsky.
Ugorski’s artistic journey truly began when he settled in Germany. He secured a contract with Deutsche Grammophon and revealed his versatility by excelling in both avant-garde compositions by modern composers and classical works by Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, and Brahms. Despite some criticism about his eccentric style, Ugorski’s recordings were widely recognized as a testament to his talent after years of being silenced.
The pianist’s unique style and interpretation divided opinions among critics. He experimented with different tempos and embraced unconventional approaches to performances, striving to make each piece feel fresh and authentic to his own perspective. His deep understanding of music allowed him to uncover hidden details within the notes and captivate those who appreciated his artistic expression.
Anatol Ugorski was born on September 28, 1942, in the Siberian city of Rubtsovsk. He showed early musical promise and was admitted to the Leningrad Conservatory at the age of 6. However, his career suffered a setback when he was banned from prominent performances after expressing enthusiastic support for modernist works that did not align with Soviet cultural norms at the time.
Ultimately, threats against his daughter’s safety due to antisemitism pushed Ugorski to emigrate from the Soviet Union. Settling in Germany, he attracted attention and support from renowned industry professionals, including the conductor Thomas Sanderling and writer Irene Dische. Thanks to their assistance, Ugorski’s talent flourished, and he released complete recordings with Deutsche Grammophon, showcasing his mastery of a wide range of composers.
Anatol Ugorski’s death on September 5, in Lemgo, Germany, leaves behind a remarkable musical legacy. His unconventional style, despite dividing opinions, resonated with those who appreciated his unique interpretation of each composition. Ugorski’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to rise above adversity in pursuit of one’s passion.
He is survived by his wife, Minze Kim, his sister, a grandchild, and his profound influence on the classical music realm.