Country

:

France

Birth

:

July 30, 1905 in Givet, Ardennes, France

Death

:

January 26, 1999 in Paris, France

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Jeanne-Marie Darré was a French classical pianist who was born on July 30, 1905, in the city of Bordeaux, France. She was the daughter of a music teacher and began playing the piano at a very young age. Her talent was quickly recognized, and she was sent to study at the Paris Conservatory when she was just nine years old. At the Conservatory, Darré studied under some of the most renowned piano teachers of the time, including Isidor Philipp and Marguerite Long. She quickly became known for her technical skill and musicality, and in 1925, she won the first prize in the Conservatory's piano competition. After graduating from the Conservatory, Darré began performing professionally. She made her debut in Paris in 1926, and her performance was met with critical acclaim. She quickly became known as one of the most talented pianists of her generation, and she began touring throughout Europe and the United States. One of the highlights of Darré's career was her performance at the 1937 World's Fair in Paris. She played a recital that included works by Chopin, Liszt, and Debussy, and her performance was broadcast on the radio throughout France. The concert was a huge success, and it helped to cement Darré's reputation as one of the greatest pianists of her time. Darré continued to perform throughout the 1940s and 1950s, and she became known for her interpretations of the works of Chopin and Liszt. She also performed works by contemporary composers, including Francis Poulenc and Olivier Messiaen. In addition to her performing career, Darré was also a respected teacher. She taught at the Paris Conservatory from 1949 to 1970, and many of her students went on to have successful careers as pianists. Darré received many awards and honors throughout her career. In 1954, she was awarded the Legion of Honor, one of France's highest honors. She was also awarded the Grand Prix du Disque for her recordings of the works of Chopin and Liszt. Darré continued to perform and teach until her death in 1999 at the age of 94. She left behind a legacy as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, and her recordings and performances continue to inspire and influence musicians today.

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