1591
A Dubliner with a roving eye and a gift for melody, John Field challenged Europe’s pianists to demand more of themselves.
John Field (1782-1837) was an Irish composer admired by both Chopin and Liszt, who may be considered the ‘father’ of the great piano tradition of Russia. His legendary and enviable silken touch at the piano changed the way the instrument was played all over Europe.
Posted March 13 2015
1593
St Wilfrid finds comfort during his tussle with the King of Northumbria
St Wilfrid was made Bishop of York, capital of the ancient Kingdom of Northumbria, in 665. He was involved in constant controversy as he resented King Ecgfrith’s interference, but he was also a key figure in keeping the English Church in close contact with the Orthodox churches of Rome and Greece, for which Bede praises him.
Posted March 13 2015
1596
A classic tale from Switzerland of overbearing authority and a father with a very steady hand.
Whenever royal families married, fought and died in Mediaeval Europe, the borders of their realms changed, and their long-suffering peoples were told to forget whatever loyalties they had sworn last, and swear new ones. There were always those willing to prosper by spying on their fellows, and according to legend, one day a Swiss archer named William Tell was spotted in an act of lese-majesty.
Posted March 13 2015