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Pnina Salzman is with us no more
The Arthur Rubinstein International Music Society and the Executive Committee mourn the death of Prof. Pnina Salzman on Dec. 16, 2006, the first lady of piano in Israel, a permanent adjudicator at the Arthur Rubinstein Piano Competition and other international competitions, laureate of the Israel Prize, a lady, independent and yet a humble person.
She was the one and only: a unique figure who veiled her exquisite sense of humor behind a serene poker-face expression. When she joined a conversation, she attracted the attention of whomever was around her, aroused smiles and laughter on the faces of her colleagues, pupils and friends. And yet, not a single smile; she made us all laugh but expressed herself with only a twinkle of the eye.
The cameras loved her: TV journalists enjoyed interviewing her, always trying to discover her personality through the lens.
Pnina was blessed with a great number of students and admirers. Despite the age difference, her introverted personality and her need for privacy, she managed to create a rare closeness with her students until the very end; and this, with her ever-radiating sense of humor, young spirit and informal attitude.
None of us believed that her days were numbered. She gladly accepted our invitation, once again, to be on the panel of adjudicators for the next Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition in 2008. We were sure she would be with us.
Pnina’s wonderful spirit, professionalism and directness will be missed by the Jury Members, the Competitors, the audiences, and all of the people of Israel.
May she rest in peace!
From left to right: Pnina Salzman, Irit Rob-Levi, Ariel Cohen,
Idith Zvi (Director, The Arthur Rubinstein International Music Society)
Photo: Michael Cohen, July 2006
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