Kraus, Greta (1907–1998)

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Kraus, Greta (1907–1998)

Austrian-born Canadian pianist and harpsichordist. Born Aug 3, 1907, in Vienna, Austria; died Mar 30, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada; became Canadian citizen (1944); studied at Vienna Academy of Music; m. Erwin Dentay (chemist).

Made debut as a harpsichord soloist in Vienna (1935) and as an ensemble player (1936); moved to Ontario (1938); appeared as soloist and duo-harpsichordist over the CBC; founded and played with the Toronto Baroque Ensemble (1958–63); with flutist Robert Aitken, formed and performed as the Aitken-Kraus Duo (1965–86); was director of the Collegium Musicum (1963–76); also taught at University of Toronto (1963–76) and privately. Appointed a member of the Order of Canada (1992).