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Solomon CutnerEnglish pianist.
Date of Birth: 09.08.1902
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Early Life and Prodigy
- Education and Career Interlude
- Return to Prominence
- Contribution during World War II
- Post-War Career and Final Years
- Legacy
Early Life and Prodigy
Solomon, an English pianist, commenced his musical journey under the tutelage of Mathilde Verne, a disciple of Clara Schumann. From a tender age, his exceptional musicality became evident. At the mere age of eight, he captivated audiences with a performance of Tchaikovsky's First Piano Concerto in London, earning him the status of a musical prodigy.
Education and Career Interlude
Solomon continued his education in Paris, studying under Lazare Levy and Marcel Dupré. However, his initial zeal for the piano waned. Following the advice of Henry Wood, he temporarily abandoned music before reigniting his passion in 1924.
Return to Prominence
Regaining his performance prowess, Solomon swiftly ascended to fame across Europe and the United States. His 1926 debut in the latter gained critical acclaim for his virtuosity, technical precision, and romantic interpretations.
Contribution during World War II
In 1939, Solomon premiered Arthur Bliss's Piano Concerto at the New York World's Fair. During the war, he generously donated proceeds from numerous concerts to support the Allied cause.
Post-War Career and Final Years
Solomon continued his prolific concertizing and recordings after the war. In 1955, he performed with Zino Francescatti and Pierre Fournier at the Edinburgh Festival as part of a piano trio. A year later, a stroke rendered him almost entirely paralyzed, cutting short his illustrious career.
Legacy
Despite the unfortunate interruption, Solomon's legacy endured. In 1982, recordings of his interpretations of works by Schumann, Chopin, Brahms, and others were released, rekindling appreciation for his artistry. Many critics regard Solomon as one of the 20th century's greatest pianists, characterized by an absence of superficial showmanship and a profound sensitivity to melody and form.