Rudolf Serkin
(1903-1991) was a Bohemian-born pianist. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Beethoven interpreters of the 20th century.

Serkin made his first United States appearance at the Coolidge Festival in Washington, D.C. in 1934. In 1936, he launched his solo concert career in the USA with the New York Philharmonic. The critics raved, describing him as "an artist of unusual and impressive talents in possession of a crystalline technique, plenty of power, delicacy, and tonal purity." In 1937, Serkin played his first New York City recital at Carnegie Hall.