Сергей Васильевич Рахманинов

Sergei Rachmaninoff (born April 1, 1873, O.S. March 20 – died March 28, 1943) was a Russian composer, pianist, and conductor renowned for his profound musicality and virtuosic performances.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of his era, Rachmaninoff possessed legendary technical skill and a powerful rhythmic drive. His exceptionally large hands allowed him to span an interval of a thirteenth on the keyboard, a span of approximately twelve inches. His prowess was captured on numerous recordings made by the Victor Talking Machine Company, featuring both his own compositions and standard repertoire pieces. He is consistently ranked among the most accomplished pianists of the 20th century.