Grigory Mikhailovich Kogan (1901–1979)

I had the privilege of meeting Grigory Mikhailovich when I was a small child taking piano lessons with his wife, Sofia. Soon I became his student, as well. Since that time, and until his death, he was my teacher, my mentor, and my dear friend.

Kogan was one of the most remarkable figures of his time. As a man of extraordinary scholarship, he spoke many languages, and was also a pianist, lecturer, critic, and pedagogue, the author of many books on a variety of subjects, ranging from The Psychological Requisites for Pianistic Success, The Texture of the Piano, to Ferrucio Busoni, Couperin, and the important monograph The Pianist's Work, among others.

He also edited a number of piano pieces and music books, wrote articles in newspapers, magazines, and encyclopedias, wrote concert and book reviews, school curricula, and so on.

It was highly interesting and educational to hear him talk about remarkable musicians, conductors, and pianists that he had heard and met in his life.

In the late 1940s, during the well-known campaign against cosmopolitism in the Soviet Union, cruel and false accusations were made against many outstanding figures. Intellectuals were the prime victims of this campaign. The most prominent Soviet composers were absurdly accused of diverging from the mainstream of Russian tradition. As a result of this campaign, Grigory Kogan lost his position at the Moscow Conservatory.