Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

January 12, 1916 in London, England

Death

:

April 6, 1999 in London, England

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

William Pleeth was a renowned cellist and teacher who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. He was born on January 12, 1916, in London, England, to a family of musicians. His father, Herbert Pleeth, was a cellist, and his mother, Ethel Bartlett, was a pianist. William showed an early interest in music and began playing the cello at the age of six. Pleeth received his early musical education at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he studied under the tutelage of Ivor James. He later continued his studies with Pablo Casals in France and Switzerland. Casals was a significant influence on Pleeth's musical style and approach to playing the cello. In 1939, Pleeth made his debut as a soloist with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, performing the Elgar Cello Concerto. This performance marked the beginning of a successful career as a soloist, chamber musician, and teacher. Throughout his career, Pleeth performed with some of the world's most renowned orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. He also collaborated with many famous conductors, such as Sir Adrian Boult, Sir John Barbirolli, and Sir Simon Rattle. One of Pleeth's most significant achievements was his collaboration with the Amadeus Quartet. The quartet was formed in 1947 and consisted of violinists Norbert Brainin and Siegmund Nissel, violist Peter Schidlof, and cellist Martin Lovett. Pleeth joined the quartet as their cellist in 1955, and they went on to become one of the most celebrated string quartets of the 20th century. The Amadeus Quartet performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States, and their recordings of the Beethoven and Mozart string quartets are considered some of the finest ever made. Pleeth's contribution to the quartet's success was significant, and his playing was praised for its warmth, depth, and sensitivity. In addition to his performing career, Pleeth was also a highly respected teacher. He taught at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and was a professor at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. Many of his students went on to have successful careers as soloists and chamber musicians, including Steven Isserlis, Julian Lloyd Webber, and Raphael Wallfisch. Pleeth's teaching style was highly influential, and he emphasized the importance of developing a strong technique and a deep understanding of the music. He was known for his patience, kindness, and generosity, and his students spoke highly of him as a mentor and friend. Pleeth received many awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of the British Empire in 1983 and the Queen's Award for Music in 1989. He was also made an honorary member of the Royal Academy of Music in 1994. William Pleeth passed away on January 5, 1999, at the age of 82. His legacy as a cellist and teacher continues to inspire musicians around the world, and his recordings and performances remain a testament to his artistry and dedication to the music.

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