Ferdi Statzer (né Friedrich von Statzer; 1906 – 17 June 1974) was an eminent Austrianpedagogue, pianist, conductor and composer. A native Viennese, his musical career transplanted him to Turkey, where he became an influential teacher to a generation of pianists.[1]
Statzer taught for many years at the Conservatory, establishing a distinct and influential school of pianism. Some of his pupils went on to successful concert or other significant music careers; these include Mehmet Kurdoğlu, Şahan Arzruni, Ali Darmar, Verda Erman,[5] Betin Güneş,[6] Meral Güneyman,[7]Sirvart Kalpakyan Karamanuk, Arın Karamürsel, Ayşegül Sarıca,[8]Ergican Saydam and Gülay Uğurata.,[9] Janet Mafyan (mother of Alain Altinoglu)
In 1972, the Austrian government bestowed Statzer with the honorary title of "Professor".
Personal life
In 1933, Statzer married the Turkish actress Bedia Muvahhit.[10] Following their divorce, he married again in 1952, this time to Hungarian violinist Lilly Szekely, leader of the then touring women's music ensemble "Pogány".
In 1944, Statzer became a Turkish citizen, and later converted to Islam.
Death
Statzer died of a heart attack on 17 June 1974 while driving in Europe. His funeral took place on 2 July 1974 at the Teşvikiye Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey.[11]
References
^Cumhuriyet. Prof. Statzer toprağa veriliyor. July 2, 1974