Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

March 12, 1923

Death

:

April 10, 2005

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

Norbert Brainin was a renowned classical music artist, born on March 12, 1923, in Vienna, Austria. He was the son of a Jewish family, and his father was a violinist. Brainin's father was his first teacher, and he started playing the violin at the age of six. He later studied at the Vienna Music Academy, where he was taught by Franz Samohyl. In 1938, when the Nazis took over Austria, Brainin's family fled to England. There, he continued his studies at the Royal College of Music in London. During World War II, Brainin served in the British Army, and after the war, he resumed his studies at the Royal College of Music. In 1946, Brainin co-founded the Amadeus Quartet with three other musicians, Siegmund Nissel, Peter Schidlof, and Martin Lovett. The quartet quickly gained recognition for their exceptional performances and became one of the most celebrated string quartets of the 20th century. The Amadeus Quartet performed extensively throughout Europe, the United States, and Asia. They were known for their interpretations of the works of Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and Haydn. The quartet also commissioned new works from contemporary composers, including Benjamin Britten, Hans Werner Henze, and Krzysztof Penderecki. Brainin's playing was characterized by his warm tone, impeccable technique, and musical sensitivity. He was known for his ability to blend seamlessly with the other members of the quartet, creating a unified sound that was greater than the sum of its parts. In addition to his work with the Amadeus Quartet, Brainin was also a respected soloist and chamber musician. He performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the Vienna Philharmonic. He also collaborated with other renowned musicians, such as pianist Clifford Curzon and cellist Jacqueline du Pré. Brainin was the recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1961, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, and in 1970, he was made an honorary member of the Royal Academy of Music in London. He was also awarded the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art in 1983. Brainin continued to perform and teach until his death on April 10, 2005, at the age of 82. His legacy lives on through his recordings, which continue to be celebrated for their musicality and technical excellence. He was a true master of his craft and a beloved figure in the world of classical music.

More....