The life and career of South African pianist and teacher Lionel Bowman (1919-2006)

Abstract

This study proposes a detailed historic account of the life and career of Lionel Bowman as a concert pianist and teacher. The role and relevance of criticism in music have also been included and documented with specific reference to Bowman’s playing. In order to do this, a survey of the available relevant literature such as Bowman’s journal and notebook, published articles, newspaper articles and reviews on the subject were comprehensively examined. Available recorded materials such as compact discs with Bowman’s live performances have been incorporated in the study. Apart from a detailed biographical account of Bowman’s life and career, as an orientation to the historic account, attention is given to how Bowman’s teaching style initiated and its development into a unique and personal method which resulted in the publication of The Magic Touch: For pianists and teachers. A workable practical guide to piano playing by Wallace Tate (2000). The success of this method supported by commentary from several pianists, who experienced Bowman’s method first hand, has been incorporated in the study. Light is also shed on Bowman’s human side including the past and present situation of the arts in South Africa in order for artists in general to learn from it and facilitate new growth and vision of the future of the Arts and Cultural field. Bowman’s final legacy and information about his death, including commentaries from people who knew him as a pianist, teacher and friend has also been documented. The study ends with a concluding chapter summarising the whole study and sheds light on future possible studies on related topics. Copyright