A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Prudent, Emile

PRUDENT, Emile, born at Angoulême, April 3, 1817, never knew his parents, but was adopted by a piano-tuner, who taught him a little music. He entered the Paris Conservatoire at 10, and obtained the first piano prize in 1833, and the second harmony prize in 1834. He had no patrons to push him, and his want of education not being supplied by natural facility, he had a long struggle with the stern realities of life, but by dint of patience and perseverance he overcame all obstacles. His first performance in public was at a concert with Thalberg, whose style he imitated, and the success of his fantasia on 'Lucia di Lammermoor' (op. 8) established him with the public. He then made constant excursions in France, and occasional trips abroad, but his home continued to be in Paris, and there he composed and produced his new pieces. His compositions, about 70 in number, include a trio for PF., violin, and cello; a concerto-symphonie 'Les trois Rêves' (op. 67); several brilliant and pleasing morceaux de genre, such as 'Les Bois,' and 'La Danse des Fées'; fantasias on opera-airs, or themes by classical composers; transcriptions with and without variations, cleverly calculated to display the virtuosity of a pianist; and finally 'Etudes de genre,' also intended to show off manual dexterity. His music is clear, melodious, and correct; pleasing the ear without straining the attention. Prudent is no fiery or original genius, but an artist with a real love for his instrument, and a thorough understanding of its resources, and a musician of taste and progress. From Thalberg to Mendelssohn is a long way to traverse, and Prudent was studying the latter composer with enthusiasm when he was carried off after 48 hours' illness, by diphtheria, on May 14, 1863. His kind and generous disposition caused him to be universally regretted. He was a good teacher, and formed several distinguished pupils, especially ladies; among these Mlle. Louise Murer, who took the first piano prize at the Conservatoire in 1854, was the best interpreter of his works. In England he was well known. He played a concerto in B♭ of his own composition at the Philharmonic, May 1, 1848; returned in 1852 and introduced his elegant morceau 'La Chasse,' which he repeated at the New Philharmonic Concert June 1, 1853.

[ G. C. ]