In the early part of the 20th century, Harriet Cohen, an Academy alumna, was a household name. Superficially known for her beauty and glamour, she wielded influence with some of the most important literary, political and cultural figures of her time – and she was a remarkable pianist. In this episode, Anna Picard explores Harriet’s life and legacy, placing her alongside her pianist contemporaries Myra Hess and Irene Scharrer, and the man who taught them all, Tobias Matthay. We explore the Academy’s pedagogical tradition, discuss the ‘male gaze’ with Joanna MacGregor and hear from the late, great Quentin Crisp.

Presenter: Anna Picard

Producer: Natalie Steed

Contributors: Helen Fry, Joanna MacGregor, Stephen Siek, Jonathan Freeman-Attwood, Allyson Devenish, Rebecca Leung

Executive Producers, Royal Academy of Music: George Chambers, Jonathan Freeman-Attwood, Safi Schlicht

Featured music:

JS Bach Piano Concerto No 1 in D minor, BWV 1052, performed by Harriet Cohen

JS Bach Prelude No 1 in C, BWV 846, performed by Harriet Cohen

JS Bach arr Cohen Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 731, performed by Harriet Cohen

Mozart Piano Sonata No 5 in G, K 283, performed by Irene Scharrer

Ravel Pavane pour une infante défunte performed by Myra Hess

JS Bach Prelude and Fugue in F sharp, BWV 858, performed by Academy student Rebecca Leung

Kabalevsky Piano Sonatina in C, Op 13 No 1, performed by Harriet Cohen

Bax A Mountain Mood performed by Harriet Cohen

With thanks to APR recordings for the use of their transfers of the historic recordings listed above. All are available on at aprrecordings.co.uk.

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