Norman Shetler was born on June 16, 1931, in Pennsylvania. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for music, and he began studying the piano at an early age. His family recognized his musical gift and encouraged him to pursue his passion for music.
Shetler's love for music continued to grow throughout his childhood, and he knew that he wanted to make a career out of his talent. After completing high school, he decided to further his musical education and enrolled in a prestigious music school.
Shetler's career as a pianist took off quickly, and he soon found himself working as an accompanist for some of the most renowned singers in the industry. He had the privilege of accompanying artists such as Brigitte Fassbaender, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Hermann Prey, Margaret Price, and Anneliese Rothenberger.
Aside from his work as an accompanist, Shetler was also known for his talents as a soloist. His performances dazzled audiences around the world, and he became a sought-after performer in the classical music scene.
One of Shetler's unique talents was his ability to combine music with puppetry. He was not only a skilled pianist but also a talented puppeteer and puppet builder. He created the Musical Puppet Cabaret, a show that blended music and puppetry in a captivating and innovative way.
The Musical Puppet Cabaret became a hit, and Shetler gained recognition for his creativity and artistry. Audiences were mesmerized by the magical combination of music and puppetry, and the show became a must-see for music and theater enthusiasts.
In addition to his performances, Shetler was also a dedicated educator. He taught at the Würzburg School of Music and Drama from 1983 to 1991, where he shared his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians.
Shetler's impact on the world of music was profound, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and artists today. His innovative approach to music and puppetry left a lasting impression on audiences around the world, and his contributions to the arts will always be remembered.
Despite being born in Pennsylvania, Shetler made the bold decision to move to Vienna, Austria, in 1955. He fell in love with the city and made it his home for most of his life. Vienna provided the inspiration and creative energy that fueled Shetler's artistic endeavors.
Throughout his life, Shetler remained dedicated to his craft and continued to push the boundaries of music and performance. His passion for music and puppetry never wavered, and he remained committed to his art until the end of his days.
Norman Shetler's legacy lives on through his music, performances, and innovative approach to the arts. He will always be remembered as a talented pianist, puppeteer, and educator who brought joy and inspiration to countless audiences around the world.
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