Abram Chasins

Abram Chasins (1899-1985) was an American composer, pianist, and music educator. He was born in New York City and studied at the Institute of Musical Art (now the Juilliard School). He was a student of Rubin Goldmark and Ernest Bloch, and later studied with Nadia Boulanger in Paris.

Early Life and Education

Abram Chasins was born in New York City on October 15, 1899. He began studying piano at the age of five and was a student of Rubin Goldmark and Ernest Bloch at the Institute of Musical Art (now the Juilliard School). He graduated from the Institute in 1921 and went on to study with Nadia Boulanger in Paris.

Career

Chasins was a prolific composer, writing over 100 works for piano, orchestra, chamber ensemble, and voice. He was also a noted music educator, teaching at the Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, and the Curtis Institute of Music. He was a frequent guest lecturer at universities and conservatories throughout the United States and Europe.

Chasins was a frequent performer, both as a soloist and with various chamber ensembles. He was a member of the Kneisel Quartet and the Kneisel Trio, and performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He was also a frequent guest on radio and television programs.

Legacy

Chasins was a major figure in American music in the 20th century. He was a prolific composer, a noted music educator, and a frequent performer. His works are still performed today, and his influence can be heard in the works of many contemporary composers.

Chasins was also a noted author, writing several books on music and musicians. His most famous book, Speaking of Pianists, is a collection of interviews with some of the greatest pianists of the 20th century.

Abram Chasins died in 1985 at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of music and education that continues to influence musicians today.