Johann Baptist Cramer
(1771-1858), Pianist and composerSitter in 2 portraits
Artist associated with 1 portrait
German-born Johann Cramer was the son of Wilhelm Cramer, a famous London violinist and conductor. Intended for the violin, Cramer preferred the piano, and he made his début as a pianist in London in 1781. He soon became known as a brilliant pianist, both in London and on the continent, and was described by Beethoven as the finest pianist of his day. Cramer went into music publishing, forming the partnership of Cramer and Keys in 1805, and later going into business with Samuel Chappell. In 1824 he joined forces with Addison and Beale, specialising in the sale of piano music. He wrote a number of piano sonatas, but his Etudes are the works for which he is best remembered as a composer.
by George Lethbridge Saunders
watercolour and bodycolour on ivory, 1827
NPG 5190
by Benjamin Wyon
bronze medal, 1845
NPG D7027
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