One of the UK’s greatest musicians, Lionel Tertis was born in West Hartlepool on 29 December 1876. Tertis singlehandedly transformed the trajectory of the viola – his chosen instrument during his 99-year life. As a result of his immense gifts as a performer and motivator he inspired, commissioned, composed and arranged literally thousands of pieces of music for the viola. This concert celebrates this legacy and the endorsement of his home town of Hartlepool.

 

The Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition took place in Gateshead back in January, after 44 years on the Isle of Man, and as part of the competition Creative Hartlepool hosted a concert by international violist Tim Ridout.  This concert continues our collaboration with the Competition, as we welcome the first prizewinner of the Tertis Competition, Sam Rosenthal, with an entirely Tertis inspired programme, alongside first prizewinner of the Cecil Aronowitz International Viola Competition, Xunyu Zhou.

 

Tertis has come home – don’t miss this unique celebration!