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Composer  

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Contemporary

 

Marie-Louise Dähler was a Swiss classical pianist who was born on August 22, 1867, in Zurich, Switzerland. She was the daughter of a music teacher and began her musical education at a young age. Her father recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue a career in music. Dähler studied at the Zurich Conservatory with Carl Baermann and later with Theodor Leschetizky in Vienna. She made her debut in 1887 in Zurich and quickly gained a reputation as a virtuoso pianist. Her performances were praised for their technical brilliance and emotional depth. In 1892, Dähler made her debut in London, performing at the Crystal Palace. She received critical acclaim for her performance and was invited to perform at the Royal Albert Hall. Her success in London led to performances throughout Europe, including in Paris, Berlin, and Vienna. Dähler's career continued to flourish, and she became known for her interpretations of the works of Beethoven, Chopin, and Liszt. She was also a champion of contemporary music and premiered works by Swiss composers such as Hans Huber and Othmar Schoeck. In 1900, Dähler married the Swiss composer and conductor Volkmar Andreae. The couple had two children and often performed together. Dähler's husband was a strong supporter of her career and helped to promote her performances. Dähler's career reached new heights in 1913 when she performed at the Salzburg Festival. She was the first Swiss pianist to perform at the festival and received rave reviews for her performance. She continued to perform at the festival for many years, becoming a regular fixture. During World War I, Dähler continued to perform, often giving concerts to raise money for war relief efforts. She also performed for soldiers on the front lines, bringing music to those who were fighting. In 1920, Dähler was appointed a professor at the Zurich Conservatory, where she taught until her retirement in 1937. She was a beloved teacher and many of her students went on to have successful careers in music. Dähler continued to perform throughout her life, even after her retirement from teaching. She gave her last concert in 1941, at the age of 74. She died on December 5, 1944, in Zurich. Dähler's legacy as a pianist and teacher continues to be celebrated today. Her recordings have been reissued on CD, and her students have gone on to become successful musicians in their own right. She was a trailblazer for women in classical music and helped to pave the way for future generations of female musicians.

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