Biography
Ferdinand Ries received instruction in piano and violin from his father, cello from Romberg, and composition from Albrechtsberger at Beethoven’s suggestion, while also taking piano lessons directly from Beethoven. Together with Wegeler he contributed to one of the earliest substantial biographies of Beethoven’s life. As a pianist he performed across Scandinavia and northern Europe; after a tour that reached London he settled in the city for eleven years from 1813 to 1824. During this period his reputation as a pianist grew steadily and his abilities earned widespread admiration. He gave lessons, presented concerts, and led performances of several of his own compositions with the Philharmonic Society. An encounter with Salomon, who had taught his father, enabled Ries to obtain conducting privileges at the same organization. Once he left London, he directed eight editions of the Lower Rhine Musical Festivals between 1825 and 1837. Ries produced an extensive body of work that encompassed three operas, two oratorios, eighteen symphonies, nine piano concertos, twenty-six string quartets, one hundred twenty-eight violin sonatas, and fourteen piano sonatas.
Singles
