Sol Hurok

Born in Pogar, in the Russian Empire, in 1888, Sol Hurok emigrated to the United States in 1906 and worked a string of ordinary jobs before making his name in the arts. He went on to become one of the best-known impresarios of the 20th century, celebrated for introducing and promoting major performers from around the world.

Hurok became especially influential in bringing internationally famous classical musicians and ballet companies to the United States. He was widely associated with presenting leading artists and ensembles from Europe and the Soviet Union, helping shape American concert and dance life for decades.

He remained a major force in cultural presenting until late in life and died in 1974. His story is often remembered as that of an immigrant entrepreneur whose ambition, persistence, and eye for talent left a lasting mark on performing arts in America.