Role

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Performer

Country

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Japan

 

Richard Stagg was born on May 22, 1955, in London, England. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a professional violinist and his mother a pianist. Stagg began playing the violin at the age of six and later switched to the viola at the age of 14. Stagg attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied with renowned violist Frederick Riddle. He graduated with honors in 1976 and went on to pursue a career as a professional musician. Stagg quickly established himself as one of the leading violists of his generation. He was appointed principal violist of the London Symphony Orchestra in 1980, a position he held for 25 years. During his tenure with the orchestra, Stagg performed under the baton of some of the world's most renowned conductors, including Sir Colin Davis, Sir Georg Solti, and Leonard Bernstein. Stagg was also a sought-after chamber musician and soloist. He was a founding member of the Nash Ensemble, one of the UK's leading chamber ensembles, and performed with them for over 30 years. He also collaborated with many other leading musicians, including pianist Mitsuko Uchida and cellist Steven Isserlis. Stagg's solo career was equally impressive. He performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the New York Philharmonic, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He also recorded extensively, with over 50 recordings to his name. Stagg's playing was characterized by its warmth, lyricism, and technical brilliance. He was particularly renowned for his interpretation of the works of British composers, including Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan Williams. Stagg's many achievements were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was made a Fellow of the Royal College of Music in 1997 and was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2006 for his services to music. He was also awarded the prestigious Wigmore Medal in 2017, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to chamber music. Stagg's career was tragically cut short when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He passed away on August 14, 2018, at the age of 63. His death was mourned by the classical music world, with many of his colleagues and admirers paying tribute to his talent, generosity, and kindness. In conclusion, Richard Stagg was a truly exceptional musician who made an indelible mark on the classical music world. His talent, dedication, and passion for music were an inspiration to all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come.

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