Fritz Kreisler (1875-1962) was an Austrian-born violinist and composer, revered as one of the greatest violinists of all time. His virtuosity and expressive phrasing set new standards for violin playing. Born in Vienna, Kreisler was a child prodigy who entered the Vienna Conservatory at the age of seven. He later studied at the Paris Conservatoire under the tutelage of Delibes and Massart, where he won the Premier Grand Prix at age 12. Despite an early start to a promising musical career, Kreisler momentarily stepped away from the violin to study medicine and art, showcasing his diverse interests and talents. However, his passion for music prevailed, leading him back to the stage.

Throughout his illustrious career, Kreisler composed a number of pieces for violin, many of which became staples in the violin repertoire. These works were often attributed to earlier composers, a practice Kreisler later revealed, adding a layer of intrigue to his legacy. His compositions, such as "Liebesleid" and "Liebesfreud", are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and technical precision. Kreisler's unique style of playing, characterized by a warm tone and generous use of vibrato, made his performances instantly recognizable. Beyond his contributions as a performer and composer, Kreisler's arrangements of the works of other composers significantly enriched the violin literature. His recordings, made during the early 20th century, continue to inspire violinists and music lovers worldwide, cementing his place in the pantheon of classical music legends.

Genres

Classical

Post-romantic Era

Violin

Related Artists

Yehudi Menuhin

Jascha Heifetz

Isaac Stern

Itzhak Perlman

Arthur Grumiaux

Joshua Bell

Niccolò Paganini

Mischa Elman

Hilary Hahn

Pinchas Zukerman

Anne-Sophie Mutter

Eugène Ysaÿe

Latest Release

Kreisler: Liebesleid, Old Viennese Dance No. 2 (Arr. Fougeray for Violin and Guitar)

Fritz Kreisler•

María Dueñas•

Raphaël Feuillâtre

Single - Released August 16, 2024