Playing with Fire: The Story of Maria Yudina, Pianist in Stalin's Russia

"Playing with Fire" is a groundbreaking biography of Maria Yudina, a legendary pianist who was central to Russian intellectual life and was Stalins favorite pianist. She lived on the fringes of Soviet society and had close friendships with such figures as Boris Pasternak, Pavel Florensky, and Mikhail Bakhtin. Despite being dismissed for ideological reasons, she remained a special case and continued to pursue her musical career.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

"Playing with Fire" is a groundbreaking work that presents a phenomenal biography of a towering human spirit of everlasting relevance. Norman Lebrecht, renowned music critic for the Wall Street Journal, has praised this remarkable biography, stating that it is a remarkable achievement.

Maria Yudina was a remarkable musician who defied convention. She lived on the periphery of Soviet society and formed close friendships with renowned figures such as Boris Pasternak, Pavel Florensky, and Mikhail Bakhtin. It is said that she was even favored by Stalin, who considered her his favorite pianist.

During World War II, Yudina's fame reached its peak. She performed daily radio broadcasts, played concerts for wounded soldiers and troops in hospitals and submarines, and even entertained the residents of besieged Leningrad. Her dedication and resilience were truly awe-inspiring.

However, Yudina's life took a tumultuous turn in the last years of her life. She faced dismissal from the three institutions where she taught, allegedly due to ideological reasons. Despite this setback, she remained a unique individual, as described by Shostakovich, who noted that she had a depth of understanding that surpassed the limitations of her surroundings.

Elizabeth Wilson, in her captivating biography, places Yudina's extraordinary life within the context of the postrevolutionary period and the subsequent years of Soviet repression. She explores the intricacies of Yudina's musical career, juxtaposing it against the intense intellectual and religious ferment of that era. Wilson's narrative is filled with vivid details and insights, providing a comprehensive account of Yudina's life and achievements.

Through "Playing with Fire," readers gain a deeper appreciation for the life and legacy of Maria Yudina. Her music, characterized by its brilliance and emotional depth, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Yudina's story serves as a testament to the power of art and the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity.

Weight: 712g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300253931