The unique character of Edinburgh is, in many respects, shaped by the people who are born and live there. Their talent and unconventional decisions are what contribute to the Scottish capital’s overall distinctiveness. You can find out more on edinburghka.
After all, the city has evolved through difficult periods in its history thanks to their efforts. Crucially, the buildings, fountains, parks, squares, and sculptures – the very essence of Edinburgh’s charm – also exist because of this human potential.
This leads to the belief that the genesis and spirit of any great city are inextricably linked to the character of its inhabitants.
People Blessed with a Gift for Beauty
When discussing Edinburgh, it’s also worth noting that it has produced a plethora of gifted individuals who went on to achieve international acclaim. By doing so, they continually reinforce the city’s status as a birthplace of geniuses.
This is particularly evident in the arts. Perhaps Edinburgh locals are endowed with a special knack for appreciating beauty. This allows them to thrive in literature, theatre, sculpture, and, of course, music.
Hester Dickson Martineau is one such figure. She was a renowned pianist and educator who proudly hailed from Edinburgh.
A Talent Passed Down
Looking at Hester’s life, one thing stands out: her musical talent was noticeable from an early age. She inherited this gift from her father, who was also a musician.
Therefore, it was no surprise that when it came time for Martineau to choose a path for self-fulfilment, no other field could compete with the arts. However, before she could truly shine on the musical stage, she needed to master the intricacies of this fascinating world.
Years of Study and a Career in Teaching
Hester first enrolled as a student at the University of Edinburgh, where she eventually graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree. She then pursued further studies at the prestigious London institution, The Royal Academy of Music.
Throughout the years Martineau dedicated to her education and honing her skills, her remarkable talent became increasingly evident.
Moreover, another gift gradually emerged: teaching.
In 1969, she officially joined the teaching faculty at The Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (which later became The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland).
It is important to note that Hester taught until a very respectable age. The pianist retired at 90! This is a testament to her sharp mind and extraordinary tenacity. Few people are capable of working for so long, and not just completing tasks, but retaining the energy to explain, educate, and unlock the potential in every student.
Performing Alongside Her Sister
As mentioned earlier, Martineau inherited her musical ability from her father. However, she was not an only child, and the gift of hearing, understanding, and reproducing music was passed on to more than just her.
Her sister, Joan, also achieved success in the arts, becoming a well-known cellist.
The two sisters frequently delighted audiences with joint performances.
In particular, they were often seen at events held at The National Gallery (formerly The Scottish National Gallery). These performances were usually held on Wednesdays and essentially served as lunchtime concerts.
A Lasting Legacy
Hester passed away in December 2015. Yet, through her talent and dedication, she left an indelible mark on the world of music. Her work garnered many admirers, and thanks to the wisdom she possessed as an educator, countless young musicians confidently took their first independent career steps under her mentorship.
The public’s respect and enduring affection for this remarkable woman were evident in the tribute concert held on the first anniversary of her death. The event took place at Edinburgh’s The Queen’s Hall.
This occasion brought together not only hundreds of spectators but also many of Hester’s talented colleagues. Most notably, the concert was organised by her son, Malcolm Martineau.
It’s worth mentioning that the musical talent was passed down to him as well. Following in his mother’s footsteps, he became a distinguished Scottish pianist, particularly renowned as an accompanist.
Thus, Hester Dickson Martineau became not only one of Edinburgh’s musical icons but also made an invaluable contribution to the development of the arts. This includes not just the pianist’s own performances but also her teaching career. Thanks to her, the music world discovered young talents who were fortunate enough to flourish under the guidance of this unique and celebrated woman.
The fact that concerts dedicated to Martineau’s memory continue to draw large audiences even after her passing speaks volumes. The public has not forgotten her and remains captivated by the exceptional pianist. It seems that even after her earthly journey ended, she never ceased to shine, illuminating the musical scene of her native Edinburgh.