Stepleton House near Blandform Forum in Dorset, home of Peter Beckford, was where a young Muzio Clementi received his musical education. He subsequently becoming one of the finest piano virtuosos of his day, earning the praise of Ludwig van Beethoven.
PETER Beckford, on a visit to Rome in 1766, was so impressed with fourteen-year-old Muzio Clementi that he engaged him to play concerts at home in Dorset.
He also paid for his musical education, eight hours a day studying the music of Handel, Scarlatti and Bach. By 1780, Beckford’s protege was performing for Marie Antoinette in Paris.
The following year, Clementi shared a stage with Mozart, on whom he showered gracious praise. Mozart was less kind. But Beethoven was a lifelong admirer, recognising that Clementi set new standards for technique and emotional expression.
Back in London, Clementi set up in business as a piano-maker and music publisher, and coached pupils including John Baptist Cramer, Ignaz Moscheles and John Field.
Even in the age of Haydn and Beethoven, as a composer Clementi won respect; but as a popular conductor, celebrity teacher and astute businessman he became a London institution. Following his death on 10th March, 1832, he was honoured with burial in Westminster Abbey.
Précis
Clementi was born in Rome, but came to England aged fourteen. A gifted pianist, and toured the Continent, even playing alongside Mozart, and winning Beethoven’s admiration. In London, he enjoyed a high reputation as a teacher, composer, piano-maker and music publisher, and such was his standing that after he died in 1832, he was buried in Westminster Abbey. (57 / 60 words)
