Leginska, Ethel. (1886–1970)
Signed Photograph
Original photograph of the important English-born American pianist, composer and conductor, affectionately signed and inscribed at the foot to the violinist Jaroslav Siskovsky: "To Shi-Shi—all good luck and happiness—from his little friend Kiddo." Leginska is shown in a serious pose with her hands clasped over a large score. Another hand has added her name at the lower left. Toning; mounting remnants to verso; overall fine. 9.5 x 7.5 inches (24.5 x 19.3 cm).Leginska, born Ethel Liggins, "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)
The Czech-American violinist Jaroslav Siskovsky (1888–1979) studied with Leopold Auer in St. Petersburg and went on to be a founding member of the New York String Quartet, with Ottokar Čadek, Bedrich Váška and Ludvik Schwab. (16221)
Signed Photograph Classical Music