Otakar Zich

Full biography Otakar Zich

Otakar Zich was a Czech composer and pianist who lived from 1879 to 1934. He was born in Prague, which was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Throughout his life, Zich made significant contributions to classical music, particularly in the field of piano music.

Zich's musical education began at a young age, and by the time he was a teenager, he was studying at the Prague Conservatory. He continued his studies in Vienna, and later in Paris, where he was introduced to the work of Debussy and Ravel. Zich's music reflects the influence of both these composers, as well as Czech folk music.

Zich's work includes over 200 compositions, many of which are for solo piano. He is best known for his "Suite for Piano," a series of lyrical and improvisatory pieces that showcase his virtuosic pianistic technique. His other works include chamber music, orchestral pieces, and songs.

Zich was also an accomplished pianist, and he often performed his own works in public concerts. He was known for his sensitivity and expressiveness, and his performances were highly regarded by both audiences and critics.

In addition to his musical career, Zich was also a respected music critic and a teacher. He contributed articles to several Czech and international music journals, and he taught at the Prague Conservatory and the Brno Conservatory.

Sadly, Zich's life was cut short by tuberculosis, and he died at the young age of 55. However, his contributions to classical music have not been forgotten, and his music continues to be performed and appreciated by audiences around the world.