Feuermann, the Performer

Marika Hughes, granddaughter of cellist Emanuel Feuermann reflects on her grandfather, Emanuel Feuermann, as a performer. She describes him as someone who loved life and embraced adventure, balancing his dedication to music with a vibrant, risk-taking personality. Despite his exceptional talent, he suffered some anxiety, particularly worried by critics before significant performances like his New York debut.

Marika speculates that his health issues, such as hemorrhoids, might have been caused by nervousness and stress associated with concertizing. She notes that while some musicians gain confidence with fame, others, like Feuermann, may have felt increased pressure. This anxiety might not have stemmed solely from external events, but could also be hereditary as she has observed similar traits in family members. Overall, Marika portrays Feuermann as a complex individual who navigated the pressures of performance while maintaining a zest for life.