Alice Herz-Sommer

Pianist and educator, Holocaust survivor

Alice Herz-Sommer - Pianist and educator, Holocaust survivor
Born

November 26th, 1903
121 years ago

Died

February 23rd, 2014
11 years ago — 110 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Czech Republic

Links & References

Born in Prague, this individual was a talented pianist and regarded as one of the last surviving Holocaust survivors. During World War II, this person was imprisoned in a concentration camp but survived by playing music, which became a source of hope and resilience. After the war, a dedicated career in music pedagogy and performance followed. This person relocated to London, where contributions to music education took shape. Through a blend of performance and teaching, significant efforts were made to share the power of music with future generations. Recognition of life's challenges and the ability to find joy in music characterized this individual's outlook.

Survived the Theresienstadt concentration camp

Performed works by composers like Chopin and Beethoven

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