Sergei Rachmaninoff

Sergei Vasilievich Rachmaninoff (Russian: Сергей Васильевич Рахманинов, Sergej Vasil’evič Rakhmaninov, 1 April 1873 [O.S. 20 March]–28 March 1943) was a Russian composer, pianist, and conductor, one of the last great champions of the Romantic style of European classical music.

Background
Rachmaninoff is regarded as one of the most influential pianists of the 20th century. He had legendary technical faculties and rhythmic drive, and his large hands were able to cover the interval of a thirteenth on the keyboard (a hand span of approximately twelve inches). According to fellow composer Igor Stravinsky, Rachmaninoff stood 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm) tall. He also had the ability to play complex compositions upon first hearing. Many recordings were made by the Victor Talking Machine Company as well as the Edison Phonograph Company recording labels of Rachmaninoff performing his own music, as well as works from the standard repertoire.

Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto Number Three was a favorite of Doctor Catherine Halsey. She listened to it when she was traveling to Eridanus II onboard the Han in 2517.