Under the Moonlight at Almost 98 Years Old

This image, accompanied by a video, is on social media along with comments that speak of both a virtuoso and elderly pianist and "a wonderful grandfather."

In reality, it’s maestro Philip Springer, an American musician whose interpretation of Beethoven's piano sonata No. 14, popularly known as Moonlight, has not only accumulated more than 25 million views from all over the world, but it has also earned him the 2024 Webby Award in the category of Best Individual Performance.

Awarded by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, the Webby Awards have recognized, since 1996, extraordinary abilities and achievements in the field of performance in many different categories and within the digital environment of Internet. Each year they attract more than 14 thousand participants from about 70 countries.

Springer is already 98, he turned 98 on May 12, one day before the award ceremony in New York. But the interpretation that went viral was performed some time before for his daughter Tamar's birthday.

So exceptional was his Moonlight that the judges unanimously ruled in its favor, stating that it brought “hope, heart and humanity” to millions of viewers, and remains a moving experience for audiences around the world.

The refined and shocking interpretation of this composer and performer – best known for writing the classic Christmas standard Santa Baby, with lyricist Joan Javits – contrasts with the ephemeral presentations on Internet that today have many "likes" and circulate in the youth world, especially with reggaeton. Almost any inhabitant of this planet could shudder with htis track, and surely the same will happen in the future. Real mastery and authenticity always endure.

This latest achievement by Springer, considered the oldest composer of the "Brill Building" era, adds to his status as winner of the Platinum Grand Prize at the World Classical Music Awards 2023, and crowns his very rich musical career in the field of digital performances.

With a master's degree from New York University and his doctorate in Composition from the University of California, this creator is credited with some 540 musical compositions, including numbers for well-known singers like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Elvis Presley, Frankie Laine, and Aretha Franklin, among others.

“I am truly honored and grateful for this recognition,” Springer stated in his Webby Award acceptance speech. «As an artist, my goal has always been to connect with the audience in a genuine and meaningful way. “This award is a testament to the hard work and passion I have put into my craft.”

It’s enough to listen to it, perhaps just look closely at this photo, to understand that passion has no expiration date, and that a Moonlight can shine with all its light even in hands with more than nine decades.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff