Many of the great composers: Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin and Liszt, for example - were also great concert pianists. Continuing in this tradition was the Russian Sergei Rachmaninoff. One of the greatest pianists of his time, Rachmaninoff was a technical wonder - playing astoundingly difficult pieces with apparent ease. Among other gifts, he had enormous hands. He could, for example, play middle C and the G above high C (a perfect 12^th apart) at the same time with one hand.

 

Naturally, Rachmaninoff is best known for his piano music. His first three piano concertos, especially, are favorites of pianists everywhere and are often performed. He also composed three symphonies, pieces for choir, songs and chamber music.