Marsick, Martin Pierre Joseph

1848-

Belgian violinist, celebrated as a quartet and solo-player; born at Jupille, near Liege. When eight years old he entered the music-school at Liege and after two years' study, was given first prize in preparatory classes. In 1864 he gained the gold medal awarded to pupils showing unusual talent. The following year he entered the Brussels Conservatory where he studied violin with Leonard and composition under Kufferath until 1867. In 1868 he went to Paris for a year of study under Massart and in 1870, receiving an allowance from the Belgian government, he went to Joachim. He made a successful debut at the Concerts Populaires in Paris, in 1873, then traveled in Belgium, England, France and Germany with good success. In 1877 he organized a quartet in Paris which consisted of Delsart, Remy, Waefelghem and himself and which became noted throughout Europe. In 1892 he received the appointment of professor of violin at the Paris Conservatory, succeeding Massart. He toured the United States in 1895 and 1896 and was well received although he did not create so profound an impression as have Ysaye, Kubelik and others. His technique is marvelous, his tone light and clear, and his rendition smooth and graceful, but there is a coldness about his playing that keeps him from making a deep or lasting impression. He has composed three violin concertos; two reveries; intermezzo; berceuse; tarentelle; agitate; romance; adagio in G minor; adagio scherzando and other concert pieces for his instrument.