Ignaz Moscheles

Ignaz Moscheles (1794–1870) was a renowned Bohemian pianist and composer whose career spanned the golden age of piano music, from Beethoven to the mid-19th century. Born in Prague, Moscheles moved to Vienna in 1808, where he attended the premiere of one of Beethoven's works. His virtuosity and compositions earned him a place among the finest pianist-composers of his time. Moscheles' extensive touring career took him across Europe, settling in London in 1821 before eventually joining his friend and protégé Felix Mendelssohn as a professor of piano at the Leipzig Conservatory. His influence extended beyond his performances, shaping the standard repertoire and canons of his era. Moscheles' legacy is one of brilliance and innovation, making him a key figure in 19th-century music history.