Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

June 23, 1855 in Dieppe

Death

:

November 2, 1937 in London, England

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Maude Valérie White was a British composer and pianist who lived from 1855 to 1937. She was born in London to a family of musicians, and her father, George White, was a well-known violinist and conductor. Maude showed an early talent for music and began studying piano and composition at a young age. As a teenager, Maude attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she studied with some of the leading composers of the day, including Arthur Sullivan and Charles Villiers Stanford. She also studied piano with Arabella Goddard, one of the most famous pianists of the time. Maude's early compositions were well-received, and she began to establish herself as a composer of note. In 1878, she won the prestigious Mendelssohn Scholarship, which allowed her to study in Germany with the renowned composer Johannes Brahms. While in Germany, Maude continued to compose and also performed her own works in public concerts. Upon returning to England, Maude continued to compose and perform, and she became a prominent figure in the London music scene. She was a member of the Society of Women Musicians and was also involved in the Women's Suffrage movement, using her music to promote women's rights. Maude's compositions were varied in style and included works for piano, voice, and orchestra. One of her most famous works is the song cycle "The White Wampum," which sets Native American poems to music. The cycle was premiered in 1902 and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. Another notable work by Maude is her Piano Concerto in A minor, which was premiered in 1895. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the soloist and features lush orchestration and memorable melodies. Maude's music was often compared to that of Brahms and other Romantic composers, but she also incorporated elements of folk music and other styles into her works. Her music was praised for its lyricism and emotional depth, and she was considered one of the leading composers of her time. In addition to her composing and performing, Maude was also a respected music educator. She taught piano and composition at the Royal Academy of Music and was known for her dedication to her students. Maude's legacy as a composer and musician continues to be celebrated today. Her music has been recorded and performed by numerous artists, and her contributions to the advancement of women in music have been recognized by organizations such as the Women's Philharmonic Advocacy. In conclusion, Maude Valérie White was a talented and influential composer and musician who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Her works continue to be admired for their beauty and emotional depth, and her dedication to promoting women's rights in music serves as an inspiration to musicians and activists alike.

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