Dickson, Joan (1921–1994)

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Dickson, Joan (1921–1994)

Scottish cellist. Born Dec 12, 1921, in Edinburgh, Scotland; died Oct 9, 1994, in London, England; sister of Hester Dickson (pianist).

Leading concert cellist and teacher, studied cello with Ivor James; traveled to Paris to study with Pierre Fournier and to Rome and Salzburg to study with Enrico Mainardi; gave recital debut in London (1953); became founding member of Edinburgh Quartet (1953); emerged quickly as leading concerto soloist with all of UK's major orchestras; premiered First Cello Sonata, work written for her, with Ian Hamilton (1958); appeared frequently at London Proms and in duo performances with sister, pianist Hester Dickson; premiered several works with Hester which were written expressly for them; taught at Royal Scottish Academy of Music (1954–81) and at Royal College of Music (1967–81); moved to London, serving as distinguished teacher at various institutions and international master classes; served as chair of European String Teachers Association.