Mayer, Emilie (1821–1883)
Mayer, Emilie (1821–1883)
German composer, sculptor, and co-director of the Berlin Opera, whose instrumental works were frequently performed in Germany and Central Europe . Born in Friedland, Mecklenburg, on May 14, 1821; died in Berlin on April 10, 1883.
Emilie Mayer studied under Carl Loewe when her musical talent became apparent and also began composing, writing dances and variations. She studied counterpoint under B.A. Marx and orchestration under Wieprecht after she went to Berlin for further study in 1847. Three years later, Mayer gave a concert of her own works which included a concert overture, a string quartet, a setting of Psalm 118 for chorus and orchestra, two symphonies and some piano solos. The concert was a great success, and not long afterwards Mayer received the gold medal of art from the queen of Prussia, Elizabeth of Bavaria (1801–1873). Mayer's instrumental works were increasingly performed, and she was appointed co-director of the Berlin Opera as a result of her growing fame. Also a talented sculptor, Mayer received a gold medal for a vase from the queen of Prussia.
John Haag , Athens, Georgia