Cor de Groot

Full biography Cor de Groot

Cor de Groot (1914-1993) was a Dutch pianist and composer who achieved significant recognition during his lifetime. He is best known for his interpretations of Romantic composers such as Chopin and Schumann, and for his recordings of contemporary Dutch composers.

De Groot began his musical career at an early age, studying with renowned Dutch pianist Egbert Veen. He made his debut as a concert pianist in 1930, at the age of 16, and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most talented young pianists in the Netherlands. He continued his studies with famous pianists such as Arthur Schnabel and Edwin Fischer.

In addition to his work as a pianist, de Groot was also a prolific composer, writing a number of works for piano as well as orchestral pieces, chamber music, and vocal music. His compositions are often characterized by their lyrical melodies and rich harmonic language.

De Groot's career was interrupted during World War II, when he went into hiding to avoid being forced to perform for the Nazis. After the war, he resumed his career as a pianist and composer, and continued to perform and record throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

De Groot's recordings include a complete set of Chopin's mazurkas, as well as notable performances of works by Schumann, Brahms, and Mozart. He also collaborated with many other musicians and conductors, including the likes of Bernard Haitink and Eduard van Beinum.

In addition to his work as a musician, de Groot was also an influential teacher, and many of his students went on to have successful careers as pianists and composers. He was awarded a number of prestigious prizes and honors during his lifetime, including the Order of Orange-Nassau, the Dutch equivalent of a knighthood.

Overall, Cor de Groot was a highly respected and influential musician in the Netherlands and beyond, known for his technical brilliance, emotive playing, and his contributions to the Dutch musical tradition.