Stephen Heller
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Stephen Heller (15 May, 1813–14 January, 1888) was a Hungarian composer and pianist whose career spanned the period from Schumann to Bizet, and was an influence for later Romantic composers.
His intended career was to be a lawyer, but at the age of nine he performed so excellently at a concert that he was sent to study under Carl Czerny. Haim was his principal master, and at the age of 12 he gave a tour of concerts through Vienna, Germany, Poland and Hungary. When at Augsburg, he had the fortune to be befriended by a wealthy family when ill, who then financed his further musical education.
At the age of 25, he travelled to settle in Paris, where he became close aquaintances with Berlioz, Chopin, Liszt and other renowned composers of his era. He earned a living as a teacher, composer and writer. In 1849 he performed in England, and in 1862 he had the honour of playing at The Crystal Palace. He outlived his lasting reputation, and was almost forgotten when he died in 1888.
Heller was a prolific composer for the pianoforte, and although his works are not often said to show surprising originality, they are renowned for their grace and elegance.