Country

:

France

Birth

:

March 2, 1839 in Orthez, Basses-Pyrénées

Death

:

December 19, 1934 in Saint-Avit, Landes, France

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Opera

 

Francis Planté was a French classical pianist who was born on March 2, 1839, in Orthez, France. He was the son of a music teacher and began playing the piano at a young age. Planté showed great talent and was soon recognized as a prodigy. He made his debut at the age of nine and was hailed as a child prodigy. Planté's talent was further developed by his studies with Antoine Marmontel at the Paris Conservatory. He won the first prize in piano at the age of 16, and his career as a concert pianist began soon after. Planté's performances were characterized by his technical brilliance and his ability to convey the emotional depth of the music he played. Planté's career took off in the 1860s, and he became one of the most sought-after pianists of his time. He performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States, and his concerts were always well-received. Planté was known for his interpretations of the works of Chopin, Beethoven, and Liszt, among others. One of Planté's most notable performances was his rendition of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73, also known as the "Emperor" concerto. He performed this piece in 1878 at the Crystal Palace in London, and it was a huge success. Planté's performance was praised for its technical brilliance and its emotional depth. Planté was also known for his recordings, which were some of the first ever made. He recorded for the French label Pathé in the early 1900s, and his recordings are still available today. Planté's recordings were praised for their clarity and their ability to capture the nuances of his playing. In addition to his performances and recordings, Planté was also a respected teacher. He taught at the Paris Conservatory from 1897 to 1913, and his students included some of the most talented pianists of the time. Planté was known for his rigorous teaching style and his emphasis on technical excellence. Planté received many honors and awards throughout his career. He was made a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor in 1878 and was promoted to Officer in 1903. He was also awarded the Grand Prix du Disque in 1931 for his recordings. Planté continued to perform and teach until his death on December 19, 1934, at the age of 95. He was one of the most influential pianists of his time and his legacy continues to inspire musicians today.

More....