Lionel Tertis
English violist who elevated the viola to solo prominence.
He was one of the first viola players to achieve international fame, and through his performing, teaching, and advocacy he greatly expanded the instrument's repertoire and profile. The source notes that Sydney Errington began studying the viola with 'the legendary Lionel Tertis' in 1934, travelling to Surrey for his lessons. Tertis told Errington at his first lesson: 'Well, you make quite a pleasant sound but it's all "flautando" - you must work for your sound, don't sound like a poor fiddler.' Errington was known as 'The Tertis of the North.'
- field
- Classical music (viola)
- nationality
- English
- known_for
- One of the first internationally famous violists; expanding the viola repertoire
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
He preferred a large viola for its rich tone and later created his own Tertis model (16-3/4 inches) to provide tonal advantages in a more manageable size. Errington played a Lionel Tertis Model (Cocker) viola from 1943. Tertis died in Wimbledon, London, at age 98.
Reader's Guide
Lionel Tertis's significance lies in his role as a pioneer for the viola as a solo instrument. Before him, the viola was largely confined to orchestral and chamber music; Tertis's international career as a soloist demonstrated its potential. His teaching at the Royal Academy of Music and his encouragement of composers created a substantial body of original works for the viola, including concertos by Walton and others. Walton's Viola Concerto was written for Tertis, though he did not give the premiere because he found it difficult to comprehend; Paul Hindemith premiered it. Tertis first performed the work in 1930. His own Tertis model viola addressed practical issues of size while preserving tonal richness. The Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition, established in 1980, continues his legacy. Many of his students became leading violists, and his transcriptions and arrangements, such as that of Elgar's Cello Concerto, further expanded the repertoire. His memoirs and writings, including 'Cinderella No More' and 'My Viola and I', document his life and philosophy.
Did You Know?
- Sydney Errington began studying the viola with Lionel Tertis in 1934, travelling to Surrey for his lessons.
- At his first lesson, Tertis told Errington: 'Well, you make quite a pleasant sound but it's all "flautando" - you must work for your sound, don't sound like a poor fiddler.'
- Errington was known as 'The Tertis of the North.'
- Errington played a Lionel Tertis Model (Cocker) viola from 1943.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Lionel Tertis?
Lionel Tertis was an English violist born in West Hartlepool in 1876 who became one of the earliest string players to earn worldwide recognition specifically on the viola. He lived to nearly 99, passing away in Wimbledon, London, in early 1975.
What is Lionel Tertis known for?
He is celebrated for bringing the viola into the spotlight as a solo instrument at a time when it was largely treated as a mid-section accompaniment voice. His decades of performing, advocacy, and commissioning work substantially broadened the available repertoire for the instrument.
Why is Lionel Tertis important in classical music history?
Before his career, the viola rarely received the kind of individual attention and new-commission treatment that violin or cello enjoyed. His sustained efforts as a performer and champion shifted the instrument's status from background support to a respected solo voice.
Did Lionel Tertis teach other musicians?
Yes, he was a highly influential pedagogue who coached numerous violists who went on to distinguished careers of their own. His teaching emphasized both technical command and deep musical interpretation, shaping several generations of players.
When and where was Lionel Tertis born, and where did he die?
He was born on 29 December 1876 in West Hartlepool, England, and died on 22 February 1975 in Wimbledon, London. His nearly century-long life spanned the late Victorian era through the modern period of classical music.
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