Birth

:

March 3, 1927 in Stoke Newington, London, England

Death

:

April 29, 2020

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Martin Lovett was a renowned cellist and founding member of the world-famous Amadeus Quartet. Born on March 3, 1927, in London, England, Lovett was the son of a violinist and a pianist. His parents recognized his musical talent at a young age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Lovett began his musical education at the age of six, studying the piano with his mother. However, he soon switched to the cello, which became his primary instrument. He studied with several prominent cellists, including Ivor James and Douglas Cameron. In 1947, Lovett joined the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, where he played under the direction of Sir Thomas Beecham. He also played with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra. However, Lovett's true passion was chamber music, and he soon left the orchestral world to focus on this genre. In 1947, Lovett formed the Amadeus Quartet with three other musicians: violinists Norbert Brainin and Siegmund Nissel, and violist Peter Schidlof. The quartet quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional musicianship and became one of the most celebrated chamber ensembles of the 20th century. The Amadeus Quartet performed extensively throughout Europe, North America, and Asia, and recorded over 200 works. They were particularly known for their interpretations of the works of Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. The quartet also commissioned and premiered works by contemporary composers, including Benjamin Britten and Hans Werner Henze. Lovett's playing was characterized by his warm tone, impeccable technique, and deep musicality. He was known for his ability to blend seamlessly with his fellow musicians, creating a unified sound that was greater than the sum of its parts. Lovett was also a gifted teacher, and he taught at several music schools, including the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester and the Royal Academy of Music in London. Throughout his career, Lovett received numerous awards and honors. In 1961, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany for his contributions to German-British cultural relations. In 1970, he was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to music. He was also awarded honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of York and the University of Leicester. Lovett retired from the Amadeus Quartet in 1987, after 40 years of performing together. However, he continued to play and teach, and he remained an active member of the music community until his death in 2020 at the age of 93. Martin Lovett's legacy as a cellist and chamber musician is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his love of music. His contributions to the Amadeus Quartet and to the world of chamber music will be remembered for generations to come.

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