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Charles-Louis HanonFrench musician, composer and music teacher.
Date of Birth: 02.07.1819
Country:  France |
Content:
- Charles-Louis Hanon
- Early Life and Education
- Organist and Dismissal
- Teaching Career
- Methodical Materials
- Recognition and Impact
- Additional Pedagogical Works
Charles-Louis Hanon
Charles-Louis Hanon was a French musician, composer, and music educator.
Early Life and Education
Hanon's early life and education are not well documented. Some sources claim he studied at the Paris Conservatory with Charles Wilfrid de Bériot, while others suggest he had no formal training. However, he did study organ with Charles Vervaat.
Organist and Dismissal
In 1846, Hanon became the organist at Saint-Joseph Church in Boulogne-sur-Mer, replacing Vervaat. However, in 1853, he was dismissed and replaced by Alexandre Guilmant.
Teaching Career
After his dismissal, Hanon remained in Boulogne-sur-Mer and taught piano at local schools and church orphanages. He was known for his piety.
Methodical Materials
Hanon is best known for his methodical teaching materials, particularly "Le pianiste virtuose en 60 exercices" (1873), which translates to "The Complete Pianist in 60 Exercises." This collection aimed to enhance finger dexterity, independence, strength, and wrist flexibility. It became part of a four-volume teaching repertoire.
Recognition and Impact
In 1878, Hanon's work was awarded the Silver Medal at the Paris World Exhibition. The Paris Conservatory adopted it as a teaching aid based on a letter from leading conservatory professors. "Le pianiste virtuose" became commonly known as the "Hanon Exercises" and gained popularity in Russia and the US. Renowned pianists, including Sergei Rachmaninoff and Gina Bachauer, acknowledged the value of Hanon's exercises.
Additional Pedagogical Works
Hanon also published "Syst?me Nouveau pratique et populaire pour apprendre ? accompagner tout Plain-Chant..." (1859), a guide to harmonizing religious chants on the harmonium. This work was in high demand and earned Hanon a letter of gratitude from Pope Pius IX.
