Le violoncelle et son virtuose

Maurice Gendron, born near Nice in 1920, was a French cellist, conductor, and teacher renowned for his elegant and poised playing style. Widely regarded as one of the greatest cellists of the 20th century, Gendron's career was marked by his bold, strong, and assertive performances, which captivated audiences worldwide. He was an active member of the French Resistance during World War II and later received the prestigious titles of Officer of the Legion of Honor and recipient of the National Order of Merit.

Gendron's musical journey began at the age of four with the violin, but he soon switched to the cello, an instrument he fell in love with. His early exposure to music came from his mother, who played the cello in a local silent movie house. Gendron's career flourished as he recorded many standard and rare works, collaborated with famous musicians, and taught at esteemed institutions such as the Yehudi Menuhin School and the Conservatoire de Paris. He also authored a book on cello technique, sharing his expertise with aspiring cellists.

One of Gendron's most notable possessions was his 18th-century Stradivarius cello, which became known as the ex-Gendron cello. His performances, particularly of the Prokofiev concerto and his trio with the Menuhin family, showcased his lyrical style and brought him international acclaim. Gendron's legacy endures through his recordings, his teachings, and the enduring influence of his playing style.