Fou Ts'ong was born on October 10, 1934, in China. His father, Fu Lei, was a well-known translator, and his mother was a talented musician. Ts'ong showed a natural talent for music from a young age and began piano lessons early on. His parents nurtured his gift and encouraged him to pursue a career in music.
At the age of 9, Ts'ong began studying piano with renowned teacher Mario Paci, who had founded the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. Under Paci's tutelage, Ts'ong honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for classical music. He later enrolled at the Warsaw Conservatory, where he studied under some of the most prestigious piano teachers in Europe.
As a young pianist, Ts'ong gained recognition for his exceptional talent and mastery of the piano. He became particularly renowned for his interpretations of Chopin's repertoire, earning him international acclaim. His performances were praised for their heartfelt emotion and technical precision, earning him a loyal following of fans and critics alike.
One of the highlights of Ts'ong's career was his role as a jury member for the Queen Elisabeth Music Competition. He served on the jury in 1991, 1999, and 2007, where he helped to discover and mentor young talent in the classical music world. His insights and expertise were invaluable to the competition, and he was widely respected for his contributions.
Ts'ong's personal life was just as colorful as his professional career. He was married twice, first to Zamira Menuhin, the daughter of famed violinist Yehudi Menuhin, and later to pianist Patsy Toh. Both of his wives were talented musicians in their own right, and they provided Ts'ong with love and support throughout his life.
Throughout his life, Fou Ts'ong left a lasting impact on the world of classical music. His exquisite interpretations of Chopin's music continue to inspire audiences and musicians alike. He will be remembered as a true virtuoso of the piano, whose passion and artistry touched the hearts of all who heard him play.
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