Alfred Cortot was a renowned French pianist and conductor, born on September 26, 1877, in Lausanne, Switzerland. He is celebrated for his expressive playing style and deep interpretations of classical music, particularly the works of composers like Frédéric Chopin and Claude Debussy. Cortot was also a prominent music educator, influencing many students through his teaching at the École Normale de Musique in Paris. In addition to his performance career, Cortot was a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a rich legacy of piano recordings. He co-founded the Cortot Trio, which contributed to chamber music, and was known for his innovative approach to piano technique. Cortot passed away on June 15, 1962, in Paris, France.