American Violinist Albert Spalding Died in 1953

He is remembered in history for having given the premiere performance in 1941 of Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto

American violin virtuoso Albert Spalding died at the age of 64.

An internationally acclaimed violinist and composer, Spalding was one of the first American violinists to make recordings and frequently performed concerts throughout his life — with his last recording completed just 10 days before he died.

Spalding made his solo debut at age 7 in Paris performing Saint-Saëns' Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor and Bach's Chaconne in D minor — making his New York City debut in Carnegie Hall 3 years later. In 1941, Spalding premiered Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto with Eugene Ormandy and The Philadelphia Orchestra.

His compositions include a String Quartet in E minor, a suite for orchestra, and two violin concerti.

Throughout his career, he held teaching positions at Boston University and Florida State University and gave masterclasses at The Juilliard School.

ALBERT SPALDING | BARBER VIOLIN CONCERTO | EUGENE ORMANDY & THE PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA | WORLD PREMIERE PERFORMANCE | 1941