The YouTube channel “Life Goes On In Iran” captured a mesmerizing moment during their 2018 visit to Russia, and the video has since become a sensation with over 5.6 million views as of 2021.
The footage showcases an elderly woman playing a street piano in Kazan, against the backdrop of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, attracting a diverse crowd of international tourists. The woman skillfully performs Franz Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No.2, a renowned composition from Liszt’s collection of 19 Hungarian Rhapsodies, created between 1846 and 1853.
Her rendition is not only flawless but also accompanied by a radiant smile throughout. The uploader, Life Goes On In Iran, notes, ‘I love her smile at the end of the video,’ echoing the sentiments of many other viewers who appreciated the joy she exuded during the entire performance.
Despite background noises, possibly from the aging piano used as a street attraction, viewers praised the woman’s talent and elegance. Her resilience in delivering such a remarkable performance despite the piano’s condition adds an extra layer of admiration. In a related video, another remarkable elderly pianist, Philip Springer, composer of “Santa Baby,” captivates the audience with a rendition of Moonlight Sonata.
As the elderly pianist concludes her performance, the appreciative crowd erupts in applause, and some approach her to convey their congratulations. She is then escorted away from the piano by another lady.
Initially unidentified, the pianist has since been recognized as Eleonora Arkadevya Breslav from Kazan, Russia. While her exact age remains unconfirmed, Breslav graduated from music college in 1953 and worked as an accompanist at her college until 1958. Later, she contributed her talents to the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow, one of the world’s premier opera and ballet houses.
Eleonora Arkadevya Breslav’s story exemplifies the timeless nature of music. Even as an older woman, her performance transcends language barriers, allowing people from all walks of life to unite in celebrating the enduring power of music.