American Violinist Maud Powell Died On This Day in 1920

Powell introduced numerous violin concertos to American audiences, including Tchaikovsky, Dvorak, Saint-Saens' 3rd Violin Concerto, and Bruch's 1st Violin Concerto

American violin virtuoso Maud Powell died at age 52 in 1920 — the year the 19th Amendment was ratified — leaving a significant mark on American music.

Born on August 22, 1867, in Peru, Illinois, she emerged as a prodigious talent in the American heartland. Raised in a progressive environment with connections to the suffrage movement, she is remembered as one of the first female American violinists in history to achieve international rank.

She studied with William Lewis in Chicago, then traveled to Europe to continue studying with masterful pedagogues Henry Schradieck, Charles Dancla, and Joseph Joachim.

Undeterred by gender biases, she approached Theodore Thomas, the leading conductor of the New York Philharmonic, securing her place with a debut performance in 1885. Critic Henry E. Krehbiel lauded her as a "marvellously gifted woman" and a born artist.

Powell revolutionized the violin recital, embarking on extensive concert tours across the United States, including the Far West. She showcased her artistry with the New York Philharmonic and represented America at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, advocating for women in violin performance. Powell's influence extended through her recordings, notably the 1907 recording of Drdla's Souvenir, exemplifying her commitment to championing American, black, and women composers.

Touring globally, Powell collaborated with eminent conductors and premiered the Sibelius Violin Concerto in America in 1906, describing it as a "gigantic rugged thing" and a musical epic. Powell introduced numerous other violin concertos to American audiences, including Tchaikovsky, Dvorak, Saint-Saens' 3rd Violin Concerto, Lalo's Symphony Espagnole, and Bruch's 1st Violin Concerto.

Powell's legacy transcends her musical prowess; she inspired women's participation in orchestras and music clubs.

The New York Symphony paid homage to her as a "supreme and unforgettable artist," recognizing her contributions to both music and societal inspiration.

MAUD POWELL | COLERIDGE-TAYLOR/POWELL | DEEP RIVER