Edouard Rouard was a French classical music artist who was born on January 15, 1892, in Paris, France. He was the son of a wealthy family and was exposed to music at a young age. His father was a music lover and often took him to concerts and operas. Rouard showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. Rouard's parents recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. He began taking piano lessons with renowned pianist and composer Gabriel Fauré. Fauré recognized Rouard's talent and became his mentor. Under Fauré's guidance, Rouard developed his skills as a pianist and composer. In 1910, Rouard made his debut as a pianist at the Salle Pleyel in Paris. He received critical acclaim for his performance and was hailed as a rising star in the classical music world. Rouard continued to perform in concerts and recitals throughout Europe and the United States. In 1914, Rouard was drafted into the French army during World War I. He served as a medic and was stationed in the trenches. Despite the difficult conditions, Rouard continued to play the piano and compose music. He wrote several pieces inspired by his experiences in the war, including his famous "Trenches Sonata." After the war, Rouard resumed his career as a pianist and composer. He continued to perform in concerts and recitals and also began teaching music. Rouard's students included some of the most talented young pianists of the time, including Yvonne Lefébure and Marcelle Meyer. In 1925, Rouard was awarded the Prix de Rome, a prestigious award for young artists. The award included a scholarship to study music in Rome for three years. Rouard used this opportunity to study Italian opera and to compose several new works. In 1930, Rouard was appointed as the director of the Paris Conservatory. He held this position for ten years and made significant changes to the curriculum. Rouard introduced new courses in music theory and history and also established a program for young composers. During World War II, Rouard continued to teach at the Conservatory and also worked with the French Resistance. He used his position to help hide Jewish musicians and to smuggle them out of the country. Rouard's bravery and dedication to his students earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and students. After the war, Rouard continued to teach at the Conservatory and also resumed his career as a pianist and composer. He wrote several new works, including his famous "Paris Suite," which was inspired by the city he loved. In 1955, Rouard retired from the Conservatory and devoted himself to composing. He wrote several new works, including his final composition, "Piano Sonata No. 3." Rouard died on December 15, 1961, in Paris, France. Edouard Rouard was a talented and dedicated musician who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His compositions and performances continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world. Rouard's legacy lives on through his music and through the many students he taught and mentored throughout his career.

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