Massart, Lambert Joseph

1811-1892

Violinist and teacher; born in Liege, well known on account of his excellence as a teacher, and because of the great number of brilliant violinists whom he has developed. His earliest instruction came from Delavau, an amateur of his native town, who became so interested in him that he prevailed upon the municipal authorities of Liege to grant Massart a scholarship which would enable him to study at the Paris Conservatory. He was greatly disappointed on arriving in Paris to be refused admission to the Conservatory by its director, Cherubini, on account of his being a foreigner. He began to study under Rudolph Kreutzer, who soon recognized his ability and became much interested in him. In 1843 he entered the Paris Conservatory to fill a position as professor of violin, in which capacity he grained great reputation on account of his carefulness and thoroughness. Some of his brilliant pupils are Henri Wieniawski, Teresina Tua, Martin Marsick, Pablo de Sarasate, Lotti, Camilla Urso and Charles M. LoefBer. Beside teaching Massart played in concert, although his diffidence prevented him from being very well known in this line. Massart had some success as quartet player, often performing in chamberconcerts with his wife, Louise Aglae Marson, who became professor of piano at the Paris Conservatory in place of Farrenc.