If I were to say to you that there was a pianist who in his day, was considered a rival and very much an equal of Liszt would that surprise you?
Perhaps not, but if I were to add that his music is rarely performed today and he has been almost completely forgotten as a composer?
Step forward Sigismond Thalberg, born in the city of Geneva in 1812. Another child prodigy he was giving concerts at the age of 14 and had travelled Europe on the concert circuit by the time he composed the piano concerto below at the age of just 18.
His innovative use of the pedals on the piano was so astonishing to audiences that performances were praised as “three handed playing”. His performances attracted praise from the Royal houses of Europe, critics and audiences alike.
He spent most of his life travelling the world performing and composing (his tours included Brazil as well as the United States). He retired in 1860, a wealthy man.
He left behind him a substantial body of piano music.
Absolute fabulous find Andrew. Piano is my true musical love so to have this ‘new’ composer introduced is v welcome. Loved it, loved it!
Wow! Fantastic! Congratulations Andrew. A stunning piece. We all have to admire the research you put in to uncover these forgotten composers and bring us the background to their lives and music.