Natalia Gutman: Shafran always stood to one side of the various trends and musical tendencies. He had a distinct personality. Possibly this is why, even while he was still alive, he was described as “legendary”. That is how he will remain in the world of music.

Vladimir Krainev: His inner refined aesthetic (I’m talking now after a certain passing of time), the incredible beauty of the sound of his instrument, the originality of his interpretation, the intense inner life of this musician enthralled you all at once.

Alexander Rudin: He was the last of the romantics.

Boris Pergamenschikov: His magical artistry, his uncompromising attitude to his own work, and his tireless search for his own artistic truth.

Lazar Berman: Possibly the trustiest, and most selflessly devoted servant of music, Daniil Shafran.