During the 19th century, the music of composers like Moszkowski, associated with salon music, was often viewed with disdain. This disparagement, however, is changing in the present day, as the renewed interest in Romanticism has led to Moszkowski's piano compositions being seen as exciting discoveries. It is worth noting that Paderewski considered Moszkowski, after Chopin, one of the most important composers for piano.
Moritz Moszkowski was born in 1854 into a wealthy Polish-Jewish family in Breslau (Wrocław). He received his first musical instruction at home before his family moved to Dresden in 1865, where he studied at the conservatory. He subsequently completed his studies in Berlin under teachers such as Eduard Franck and Friedrich Kiel. In 1873, he made his debut as a pianist in Berlin. Moszkowski undertook concert tours, composed extensively, and gained the recognition of Franz Liszt.
In the following years, he established himself as a respected pianist, composer, and conductor. His move to Paris in 1897 marked the pinnacle of his career. Moszkowski, who was also considered a talented violinist, left a lasting impression on many musicians of his time. After 1908, his fame waned due to health problems and personal tragedies. Later, Moszkowski was impoverished by investments rendered worthless by the First World War and died in Paris in 1925.
Moszkowski was known for his brilliant piano music, which exhibits a distinctive style. His creative development is reflected in works ranging from the "Fantaisie Impromptu" of the 1870s to the "Grande Valse de Concert" of 1912. Compositions such as Opus 24 and Opus 42 demonstrate Moszkowski's technical prowess and his refined salon music. A remarkable paraphrase of Wagner's Tristan und Isolde, published in 1914, testifies to his recognized mastery.
Martin Eastick © 1996