Country

:

Germany

Birth

:

August 25, 1915 in Munich, Germany

Death

:

September 27, 1997 in Nova Scotia, Canada

 

Walter Trampler was a renowned violist and chamber musician who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on August 25, 1915, in Munich, Germany, Trampler grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist. Trampler began playing the violin at the age of six, but he switched to the viola when he was 14 years old. Trampler's musical education began at the Munich Conservatory, where he studied with Max Rostal. He later continued his studies with William Primrose at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Trampler's talent as a violist was evident from an early age, and he quickly gained recognition as a soloist and chamber musician. In 1940, Trampler joined the NBC Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Arturo Toscanini. He remained with the orchestra until 1942 when he was drafted into the United States Army. During his time in the army, Trampler played in the Seventh Army Symphony Orchestra, which was made up of musicians who had been drafted into the military. After the war, Trampler returned to the United States and began a successful career as a chamber musician. He was a founding member of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and played with the group for many years. Trampler also performed with the Budapest Quartet, the Guarneri Quartet, and the Beaux Arts Trio. Trampler's playing was characterized by its warmth, sensitivity, and technical mastery. He was known for his ability to blend seamlessly with other musicians, and his performances were marked by a deep emotional intensity. Trampler was also a respected teacher, and he taught at the Juilliard School, the New England Conservatory, and the Curtis Institute of Music. Throughout his career, Trampler received numerous awards and honors. In 1961, he was awarded the Harriet Cohen International Music Award, and in 1977, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Jimmy Carter. Trampler was also a recipient of the Avery Fisher Prize, which is awarded to outstanding musicians in the United States. Trampler's discography is extensive, and he recorded with many of the world's leading orchestras and chamber ensembles. Some of his most notable recordings include his performances of the Brahms and Mozart viola quintets with the Budapest Quartet, his recording of the Schubert "Arpeggione" Sonata with pianist Rudolf Serkin, and his recording of the Bach Cello Suites transcribed for viola. Trampler continued to perform and teach until his death on September 27, 1997, in Amherst, Massachusetts. He was 82 years old. Trampler's legacy as a violist and chamber musician continues to inspire musicians around the world, and his recordings remain a testament to his artistry and musical genius.

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