Birth

:

May 26, 1954 in Edinburgh, Scotland

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Susan Tomes is a renowned classical pianist and chamber musician who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1948, Tomes began playing the piano at the age of five. She showed a natural talent for music and quickly progressed, winning her first competition at the age of nine. Tomes went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she was awarded the prestigious Queen's Commendation for Excellence in 1968. She continued her studies with Maria Curcio, a renowned pupil of Artur Schnabel, and later with Claude Frank in the United States. In 1974, Tomes co-founded the Florestan Trio with Richard Lester and Anthony Marwood. The trio quickly gained a reputation for their outstanding performances and interpretations of classical music. They have performed at major venues and festivals around the world, including the Wigmore Hall in London, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and the Lincoln Center in New York. Tomes has also established herself as a solo pianist, performing with leading orchestras such as the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. She has recorded numerous solo albums, including works by Schubert, Schumann, and Brahms. In addition to her performing career, Tomes is also a respected writer and educator. She has written several books on music, including Beyond the Notes: Journeys with Chamber Music, which was shortlisted for the Royal Philharmonic Society Music Award in 2005. She has also taught at the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. Tomes has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. In 1998, she was awarded an OBE for her services to music. She was also awarded the Cobbett Medal in 2013, which is given to musicians who have made a significant contribution to chamber music in the UK. One of Tomes' most memorable performances was at the 2000 Proms, where she performed Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Her interpretation of the piece was widely praised, with critics describing it as "sublime" and "mesmerizing." Tomes' dedication to classical music has inspired many young musicians, and she continues to be a leading figure in the world of chamber music. Her passion for music and her commitment to excellence have made her a true icon of classical music.

More....