Sarasate

Sarasate, MARTIN MELITON, violinist, was born of Basque parentage at Pampluna in Spain, 10th March 1844. Taken to Paris whilst still a child, he studied at the conservatoire there from 1856, and won the first prize for the violin in 1857; then, having finished his studies, he began what was to be his life's occupation, travelling from town to town and from continent to continent giving concerts. He first appeared at London in May 1874, playing at one of the Philharmonics. He always draws large audiences, his style being pure, easy, and graceful: he can play with fire and passion, and his taste is nearly faultless. He has composed only light pieces, chiefly Spanish dance tunes.