Musicians & Composers · Early 20th Century
Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Last Words
“Dear hands.”— Sergei Rachmaninoff, March 28, 1943
Who Was Sergei Rachmaninoff?
Sergei Rachmaninoff was a Russian composer and pianist who is considered one of the finest pianists of the 20th century and a leading composer of the Romantic era.
The Final Moments
Rachmaninoff died at his home in Beverly Hills, California. His final words reportedly referred to his famous pianist's hands.
Are These Words Verified?
Reported by family members present at his Beverly Hills deathbed, though the exact source is not a published firsthand account. Widely repeated in biographies.
Sources
- firsthand Family member reports
- biography Barrie Martyn biography 'Rachmaninoff: Composer, Pianist, Conductor'
Legacy
Rachmaninoff's Second and Third Piano Concertos are among the most demanding and beloved in the repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Sergei Rachmaninoff’s last words?
“Dear hands.”
How did Sergei Rachmaninoff die?
Sergei Rachmaninoff died on March 28, 1943 at the age of 69. Cause of death: Melanoma.
Were Sergei Rachmaninoff’s last words documented?
Reported by family members present at his Beverly Hills deathbed, though the exact source is not a published firsthand account. Widely repeated in biographies.