Leginska, Ethel. (1886-1970)

Signed Photograph

Vintage 5 x 7 inch photograph, signed and inscribed by the important English-born American pianist, composer and conductor. Small surface ship at top, not affecting signature.


Early in her career, she changed her name from Liggins to Leginska and became widely known as the "Paderewski of woman pianists." "She made her official début in London at the age of 16 and then gave concert tours in Europe before moving to the USA in 1913, where she achieved her greatest success in the 1916–17 season. A great favourite with the public, she was noted for her demanding programmes and her innovations, such as playing an entire Chopin programme without an interval. In 1914 she began to compose, studying with Bloch in 1918. Her relatively small output includes songs, piano and chamber music, symphonic poems, a fantasy for piano and orchestra and two operas. It is to her credit that Leginska was able to secure performances of her larger works at a time when women’s compositions were rarely heard in public." (Carol Neuls-Bates, Grove) (1510)
Signed Photograph
Classical Music