Leopold Godowsky was widely acclaimed as a pianist during his lifetime, but his compositions were slower to gain acceptance. Although Godowsky was sometimes discouraged, he was able to write his daughter shortly before his death: "When I am but a memory my works and my influence will begin to live." [1]
Modern growth in the quality and distribution of musical recordings were to help these words come true. Although Godowsky wrote pieces at all levels of difficulty, many of his major works require extraordinary technical ability. Only a handful of pianists could perform them. But the rise of records and compact discs meant that one performer could reach a vast audience. Beginning with a few notable champions such as the composer's son-in-law, David Saperton, Godowsky's music has been taken up by a talented circle of musicians that includes some of the world's most illustrious pianists. As of this writing, two complete cycles of Godowsky's solo piano music are being recorded.
We are proud to present the first complete discography of Godowsky's music. Our database includes all commercially released recordings. MIDI and other electronic or mechanical performances are not included. In the case of identical recordings issued multiple times, we list the most widely available release.
The discography was compiled by Donald Manildi and staff of the International Piano Archives at the University of Maryland. It includes recordings released prior to February, 2002.
[1] Nicholas, Jeremy. Godowsky: The Pianists' Pianist. (Northumberland: Appian Publications and Recordings, 1989).
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