Nelsova, Zara (1917–2002)
Nelsova, Zara (1917–2002)
Canadian-American cellist. Name variations: Sara Nelson. Born Sara Nelson in Winnipeg, Canada, Dec 24, 1917; died Oct 10, 2002, in New York, NY; dau. of Gregor Nelsov (flautist); studied with father, as well as Dezsö Mahalek, Herbert Walenn, Pablo Casals, Emanuel Feuermann, and Gregor Piatigorsky; m. Grant Johannesen (American pianist).
One of the preeminent cellists of her time, known for her close collaboration with composer Ernest Bloch, played with sisters in a musical trio when young, 1st in Canada, then England, notably at Royal College of Music and with London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent; debuted as soloist at Wigmore Hall to rave reviews (1936); with advent of WWII, returned to Canada (1939); engaged by Arthur Fiedler to play with Boston Pops, then soloed with Boston Symphony; became principal cellist with Toronto Symphony and formed a 2nd Canadian Trio with Kathleen Parlow and Sir Ernest MacMillan; with Pablo Casals, made recital debut at NY's Town Hall (1942); began artistic relationship with Bloch, playing his Shelomo at a festival of his music in London (1949), later recording it under his baton; began teaching at Juilliard (1962); continued to tour widely in Europe, and North and South America, and was the 1st North American cellist to tour Soviet Union (1966); appeared as soloist with more than 30 orchestras throughout world; after marriage, often performed with husband; also recorded frequently.
See also Women in World History.