NEWS: Paul Pollei- founder of Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation passes away

Paul Pollei, Founder and Artistic Director, of the Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation passed away July 18, 2013.

Paul Pollei has been a champion of piano competitions, a much sought after adjudicator, a quintessential teacher and presenter of lectures and master classes, and a brilliant performer. It would be difficult to catalogue his influence among pianists, teachers and audiences, or to find a contemporary pianist who does not have a fond memory and a story to tell about his or her interaction with Paul Pollei. 

During the 37 years of Bachauer competition history, approximately 1,500 pianists have competed, more than $430,000 prize money has been awarded, and countless careers have been launched. The Bachauer competition format has never been static. Paul Pollei led the way with such innovations as competitors free choice of repertoire, two rounds of competition with no eliminations, and organizing separate competitions for three different age groups of aspiring pianists. These innovations have been emulated by many other piano competitions.

The Gina Bachauer Foundation, the people of Utah, and, indeed, the people of the world, have been enriched by Paul Pollei’s many contributions. The music world has lost a dear friend.

The funeral will be held Thursday, July 25 at the Edgemont 21st ward, 2900 North Timpview Drive, Provo. The viewing will be the night before at Berg Mortuary, 185 East Center Street, Provo from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. There will be a viewing at the church on Thursday from 9:30 - 10:45 am.