A renowned violist who championed the viola as a solo instrument, commissioning and premiering numerous works that expanded the viola repertoire.
Lionel Tertis, a renowned English violist, was one of the first to achieve international fame, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing performances and expanding the viola's repertoire. He was a noted teacher, and his influence on the music world is still celebrated today.
Born on December 29, 1876, in West Hartlepool, England, Tertis was the son of Polish-Jewish immigrants. His early fascination with music led him to study violin in Leipzig, Germany, and later at the Royal Academy of Music (RAM) in London.
Under the guidance of Alexander Mackenzie, the principal of RAM, Tertis was encouraged to take up the viola, which would become his life's passion. Oskar Nedbal's influence further solidified his decision to pursue the viola, and he rapidly became one of the best-known violists of his time.
Tertis's illustrious career as a soloist took him on tours across Europe and the United States. In 1900, he became Professor of Viola at RAM, where he inspired his colleagues and students to compose music for the instrument, thereby greatly expanding its repertoire.
He was a member of the famous Bohemian Quartet, replacing Oskar Nedbal in 1906, and later joined the Walenn Quartet. His performances and collaborations with renowned composers like Arnold Bax, Frank Bridge, Gustav Holst, and Ralph Vaughan Williams further solidified his reputation as a master violist.
Tertis's influence on the music world is evident in the numerous compositions written specifically for him. The list of notable composers who created pieces for him includes:
One of the most notable compositions written for Tertis was William Walton's Viola Concerto. Although he didn't give the world premiere, he performed the piece five times over the next three years, showcasing his mastery of the instrument.
Tertis owned a 1717 Montagnana viola, which he acquired in 1920 during one of his concert tours to Paris. He found the instrument in an unplayable condition, but his wife's quick thinking and resourcefulness helped him bring it back to life. This instrument became an integral part of his performances, and its large size (17-18 inches) only added to its uniqueness.
Lionel Tertis's legacy extends far beyond his performances and compositions. He inspired generations of musicians and expanded the viola's repertoire, leaving an indelible mark on the music world. As a teacher, he nurtured talent and encouraged innovation, ensuring that his passion for the viola would continue to resonate long after his time.
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