Lionel Tertis

Lionel Tertis, who came to be known as the "father of the viola," was an artist of unparalleled talent and a pioneering figure in the world of classical music. His journey from obscurity to iconic status tells a story of persistence, innovation, and impeccable artistry. Born on December 29, 1876, in Hartlepool, England, Tertis was engulfed by music from an early age. His parents, who were of Jewish descent, fostered his budding talents, albeit the economic challenges they faced. As a young boy, Tertis began his musical education in Leeds, initially specializing in the piano and later trying his hand at the violin. However, it was the serendipitous suggestion that he take up the viola during his time as a student at the Royal Academy of Music in London that would change the trajectory of his life. At the turn of the 20th century, the viola was seen as an auxiliary instrument, often overshadowed by its more celebrated counterparts—the violin and the cello. Its repertoire was limited, and few performers dedicated their virtuosity solely to the viola. Tertis was determined to elevate the instrument’s status. His fervor for its rich tonal quality and expressive potential led him to become one of the first violists to carve out a career as a soloist. Throughout the early 1900s, Tertis’s performance calendar was packed. He toured extensively, enchanting audiences across Europe and the United States with his rich, sonorous tone and profound interpretive skills. His performances were not simply concerts; they were revelatory experiences that demonstrated the viola's versatility and emotional depth. Critics raved about his performances, and he quickly laid the groundwork for the modern violist’s repertoire, commissioning works from contemporary composers. Central to Tertis’s mission was expanding the viola's repertoire. He collaborated with composers of his time, encouraging them to write new works for the instrument. Notable among his contributions was his work with revered composer Sir Edward Elgar. Although Elgar composed his "Cello Concerto" with cellist Beatrice Harrison in mind, Tertis transcribed the piece for viola, expressing a deep belief that the instrument could embody the same grandeur intended in Elgar's soaring lines. Tertis's advocacy did not end with performances and collaborations. In 1925, he published "Cinderella No More," a telling memoir which addressed the viola’s overlooked status and offered insights into his radical methods. The viola community and indeed the broader classical music world began to take notice. Moreover, his pioneering efforts in developing design enhancements led to the creation of the "Tertis model viola," an instrument with a broader body and robust sound, created in partnership with esteemed luthiers. This model set a new standard for violists, many of whom still seek out these instruments today. Educational reform was another pillar of Tertis’s legacy. He nurtured the next generation of viola players both in his role at the Royal Academy of Music, where he held a professorship, and through masterclasses he conducted worldwide. His students spoke highly of his instructive rigor and his empathetic yet demanding teaching style. Many went on to have successful careers themselves, further cementing the viola within the mainstream of classical performance. In 1937, Tertis retired from the concert stage, though his influence did not wane. In his later years, he continued to write and edit music, ensuring that future generations had access to a broadened viola repertoire. His transcriptions of significant works allowed violists access to compositions that were once beyond their reach. He often mused that the viola’s melancholy and human-like voice offered a unique perspective within orchestral and chamber music settings. Tertis’s contributions culminated in a formidable legacy: not only was he instrumental in altering the sonic landscape of orchestral and chamber music to include the viola as a central voice, but he also changed the perception of what the viola could achieve artistically. His work laid the groundwork for future generations of violists who benefited from the doors he opened and the repertoire he created and encouraged. Lionel Tertis passed away on February 22, 1975, at the age of 98. His long life mirrored the lasting legacy he left on the classical music world. He is remembered not just as a pioneering violist, but as a visionary who transformed the possibilities of his chosen instrument, ensuring that the viola’s "Cinderella story" was rewritten as one of triumph and recognition.