Mathilde Verne facts for kids

Mathilde Verne (born Mathilde Würm; May 25, 1865 – June 4, 1936) was a talented English pianist and a respected music teacher. She had German family roots. In 1893, after her father, John Wurm, passed away, Mathilde and most of her sisters changed their last name to Verne.

Early Life and Musical Training

Mathilde Würm was born in Southampton, England. She was the fourth of ten children in her family. She loved music from a young age.

Mathilde went to Frankfurt to study music. For four years, she learned from the famous pianist and composer Clara Schumann. This training helped her become a skilled musician.

Becoming a Concert Pianist and Teacher

In 1887, Mathilde Verne started her career. She became known as a concert pianist, performing for audiences. She also began teaching music to others.

She taught for a short time at the Royal College of Music. Later, she often played at the Queen's Hall Promenade Concerts, led by Henry Wood. She was especially known for the "Tuesday 12 O'Clock Concerts," which featured chamber music. These concerts were very popular from 1907 until her death.

Famous Performances and Tours

Mathilde made her first big performance in London. She played a piano trio by Mendelssohn at St James's Hall. She often performed as a soloist with famous conductors. These included Arthur Nikisch, Hans Richter, Sir August Manns, and Sir Henry J. Wood.

She also traveled to the United States twice. There, she performed under the conductor Theodore Thomas. Mathilde was especially praised for how truly she played the music of Robert Schumann. People said she captured the real feeling of his works.

Inspiring Young Musicians

Mathilde Verne was a very important teacher. Many of her students became famous musicians themselves. Her sister, Adela Verne, was one of her pupils. Her nephew, John Vallier, also studied with her.

Other well-known students included Solomon, Dame Moura Lympany, Harold Samuel, and Herbert Menges. She even taught Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, who later became Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

Later Life and Legacy

Mathilde Verne wrote a book called Chords of Remembrance. She passed away in London in 1936. She was at a party at the Savoy hotel to celebrate her book's launch, surrounded by her musician friends. Her legacy lives on through her music and the many students she inspired.