Hélène Bibesco

Princess Elena Bibescu (Romanian pronunciation: [eˈlena biˈbesku], 1855 – October 18, 1902) was a Romanian noblewoman and pianist. She was born as Elena Costache-Epureanu in 1855 in Bârlad, then part of the Principality of Moldavia. Her father was Manolache Costache Epureanu, who later held the position of Prime Minister of Romania, and her mother was Princess Maria Sturdza.

In her personal life, Elena Bibescu married Alexandru Bibescu. Together, they had three children: Antoine, Emmanuel, and Hélène. Her debut performance took place on February 14, 1873, in Bucharest at the Grand Theatre of Bucharest during a charity concert attended by King Carol I and Queen Elisabeth of Romania.

Elena Bibescu was trained as a pianist at the Vienna Conservatory, where she studied under Anton Rubinstein, a prominent figure in Russian culture and a renowned pianist and composer. She graduated from the Vienna Conservatory with honors, receiving a medal and a diploma of honor.

She became prominent in France as a pianist and a supporter of the arts and culture. She was renowned for her skill at the piano and became one of the most famous performers in Europe during the 19th century. Beyond her musical achievements, she hosted one of the most prestigious salons in Paris for over three decades. Her salon attracted many eminent figures of the European cultural scene, including Marcel Proust, Franz Liszt, Richard Wagner, Pierre Loti, Anatole France, Claude Debussy, and Charles Gounod.

Elena Bibescu was also known for her role as a protectress of culture. She played a significant part in promoting Romanian music and musicians, notably supporting George Enescu alongside Queen Elisabeth of Romania. She assisted in promoting Enescu among the French artistic elite. In recognition of her influence and support, Enescu dedicated his symphonic poem Vox Maris to her memory in 1954, more than fifty years after her death.

In October 1902, Elena Bibescu returned to Romania and was residing at her family’s manor in Epureni, near Bârlad. She fell ill with cancer and was transported to Iași for treatment. She died on October 18, 1902, shortly thereafter.