Mihaela Ursuleasa (1978-2012)

Brilliant Romanian pianist dies, aged 33

Published: August 3, 2012 at 9:34 am

The Romanian pianist Mihaela Ursuleasa has died, aged just 33.

Ursuleasa is believed to have suffered a cerebral haemorrhage, and was discovered dead in her apartment in Vienna. She would have performed Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 on tour with the National Youth Orchestra tomorrow.

Born in Romania, Ursuleasa was a child prodigy and began playing piano at the age of five. She won a scholarship to the Vienna Conservatoire at the age of 13, graduating with honours after eight years of study. After ranking first in the Clara Haskil Competition in 1995, she embarked upon an international career as soloist and chamber musician.

Ursuleasa played with many of the world’s celebrated orchestras in concert halls around the world, building a reputation for her emotional depth. She was also an exceptional chamber music player and accompanist, not least when in partnership with the brilliant Moldovan violinist Patricia Kopatchinskaja. Her 2010 debut album Piano & Forte won the ‘Solo Recording of the Year’ ECHO Klassik award, and her second album ‘Romanian Rhapsody’ was released in 2011.

Mihaela Ursuleasa is survived by her five-year old daughter.

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