Vladimir Samoylovich Horowitz (Ukrainian: Володимир Самійлович Горовиць, Volodymyr Samiylovych Horovyts; Russian: Владимир Самойлович Горовиц, Vladimir Samoylovich Gorovits; October 1 [O.S. September 18] 1903 – November 5, 1989) was a Russian-born American classical pianist and composer. His technique, use of tone color and the excitement of his playing are considered legendary. He is widely considered one of the greatest pianists of all time.