Today’s Beautiful Music is provided by a cellist born more than a century ago. British cello virtuoso Beatrice Harrison plays OMBRA MAI FU (aka the “largo”) by George Frideric Handel with her sister, pianist Margaret Harrison. It was recorded in 1922, so it’s not the finest sound quality, but it’s a lovely performance. You can also watch an informative segment by cellist Hanna Holman introducing you to Beatrice Harrison’s life story. And what a life story it was! Her talent was evident as a young girl, and she attended the Royal College of Music of London. Her sisters were talented musicians, too. Composer Frederick Delius was a close friend, and she gave the first performances of some of his cello music. Beatrice Harrison was the first female cellist to perform at Carnegie Hall, and she was the first woman to perform as a soloist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Chicago Symphony. She’s also famous for playing outside in her garden, where the birds joined her, singing along with her cello. That duet with nature was even broadcast by the BBC.
(50) Beatrice Harrison plays Handel “Ombra Mai Fu” – cello piano – YouTube
(50) Influential Female Cellists with Hannah Holman, Ep 3 ~ Beatrice Harrison – YouTube