Albert Sammons

Albert-Sammons

Albert Sammons
Birth name	Albert Edward Sammons
Born	23 February 1886 London, England
Died	24 August 1957 Walton-on-Thames, England
Genres	Classical
Occupation(s)	Violinist
Instrument(s)	Violin
Years active	1906–1948

Albert Edward Sammons (23 February 1886 – 24 August 1957) was a renowned British violinist known for his exceptional technique and expressive playing. He was particularly celebrated for his interpretations of Elgar's Violin Concerto.

Early life and education

Albert Sammons was born in London, England, into a musical family. His father was a violinist and his mother a pianist. Sammons began learning the violin at a young age and quickly showed prodigious talent. He studied under various teachers, including Achille Rivarde.

Career

Sammons made his professional debut in 1906 and soon became a prominent figure in the British classical music scene. He was a founding member of the London String Quartet, which was established in 1908. The quartet gained international acclaim and was known for its performances of both classical and contemporary works.

In addition to his work with the London String Quartet, Sammons had a successful solo career. He was particularly noted for his performances of Elgar's Violin Concerto, which he recorded in 1929 with the New Queen's Hall Orchestra conducted by Henry Wood. This recording is still regarded as one of the finest interpretations of the concerto.

Sammons also collaborated with other prominent musicians of his time, including Sir Thomas Beecham and Sir Adrian Boult. He was a frequent soloist with the Royal Philharmonic Society and other major orchestras.

Later years and legacy

In the later years of his career, Sammons faced health issues that affected his playing. He retired from public performance in 1948 but continued to teach and mentor young violinists. He passed away on 24 August 1957 in Walton-on-Thames, England.

Albert Sammons is remembered as one of the greatest British violinists of the 20th century. His recordings and contributions to the world of classical music continue to be celebrated.

Selected recordings

• Elgar's Violin Concerto with the New Queen's Hall Orchestra conducted by Henry Wood (1929)
• Various chamber works with the London String Quartet

See also

• List of British classical violinists
• London String Quartet
• Edward Elgar