Lessons by Mstislav Rostropovich as an accompanist
The article offers the first attempt to analyze Mstislav Rostropovich as a piano accompanist. This aspect of the renowned cello performer’s achievement compared to the other has so far been mostly neglected. However, the extant materials (including records) show that the phenomenon in question is quite unique and holds a special place in the history of the performing art. Besides, the subject is part of the new teaching course “History and Theory of the Art of Accompaniment” taught by the author in the Alexander Herzen Russian State Pedagogical University (Institute of Theater, Music and Choreography). The efforts of Mstislav Rostropovich in this field provide excellent materials for examination of the musician’s engagement as an accompanist, which could be useful for both future accompanists and music teachers. Their study, therefore, seems important in the process of training piano performers majoring in both education and accompaniment.