Richard Clayderman is one of the most popular pianists of our time. To many, he is known as a performer of music for films. They call him the Prince of Romance. Richard's records are deservedly sold in multi-million copies. "Fans" are looking forward to the pianist's concerts. Music critics also acknowledged Clayderman's talent at the highest level, although they call his playing style "easy".
Childhood and youth of the artist Richard Clayderman
He was born in the capital of France at the end of December 1953. He was lucky to be brought up in a creative family. It is interesting that it was the father who instilled in his son a love of music and even became his first teacher.
The head of the family was originally engaged in carpentry, and in his free time, he did not deny himself the pleasure of playing music on the accordion. However, an illness broke out that deprived Father Philip of the opportunity to work physically.
He bought a piano at home and taught music to everyone. Richard's mother was a down to earth woman. At first she held the position of a cleaner, and later, she settled at home.
With the advent of the piano in the house - Richard could not resist. He was bursting with interest from a musical instrument. He kept running up to him. Father did not let this fact go unnoticed. He saw talent in his son.
The father began to teach his son music, and after a while he began to read the scores perfectly. Soon he entered the local conservatory, and after 4 years he won the piano competition. His teachers said that he would succeed as a classical musician. Richard surprised the family when he turned to contemporary music.
The young talent explained his choice by the fact that he wants to create something new. Together with friends, he created a rock band. The brainchild of musicians at first did not bring any results. By that time, the artist's father was seriously ill. He was forced to leave a frivolous occupation. The guy got a job as a session musician. He gave the money he made to his family.
He was not badly paid, but so far he could not dream of more. Soon he began to collaborate with established French pop stars. Then he did not even think about how to promote himself as an independent musician. He was happy to gain experience in collaboration with popular artists.
The creative path of Richard Clayderman
In the mid-70s of the last century, an event occurred that completely turned Richard's life upside down. The fact is that producer O. Toussaint contacted him.
The famous French maestro Paul de Senneville was in search of a musician who could perform the piece Ballade pour Adeline. Of the two hundred applicants, the choice was made in the direction of Richard. Actually, during this period of time, Philippe Page (his real name) took the creative pseudonym Richard Clayderman.
The musician did not expect to become popular. At that time, most music lovers listened to disco tracks. The fact that instrumental music will be in demand for the public surprised not only the musicians, but the whole team. He visited dozens of countries with his concerts. His LPs, which were often certified platinum, sold well.
In the 80s, 22 thousand spectators came to the performance of the musician in Beijing. A year later, he spoke to Nancy Reagan herself. By the way, it was she who nicknamed him the Prince of Romance.
Richard's work is a real find. Firstly, it organically combines the best traditions of classical and modern music. And secondly, over the years of creative activity, he managed to develop a unique style of performing compositions. You can't confuse his playing with the playing of other musicians.
Details of the artist's personal life
Richard has always been in the center of female attention. He is not badly built, and besides, many beauties were attracted by his musical abilities. The artist first married at the age of 18. His fiancee was named Rosalyn.
Richard calls this marriage a mistake of youth. The couple was so young and inexperienced that they hurried down the aisle. In fact, they lived in a family union for a very short time.
In this marriage, the couple had a charming daughter, who was named Maud. The appearance of a common child - the union was not sealed. In general, Richard and Rosalyn lived together for a little over two years.
The musician did not enjoy solitude for long. In the 80s of the last century, he married a girl named Christine. They met at the theatre. Soon Richard proposed to her. In this marriage, the couple had a son.
This alliance also proved to be not so strong. Although, according to Richard, he tried his best to be a good husband and dad. But, constant touring and the absence of the head of the family at home left their mark on the microclimate of relations.
As a result, the couple made a joint decision to leave. Then he had several short novels. Then the journalists learned that he had married a woman named Tiffany. She also realized herself in the creative profession. Tiffany - skillfully played the violin.
The wedding ceremony took place in secret. At first, the journalists had no idea that Richard was no longer a bachelor. The couple did not invite guests to the wedding. Of those present, only the faithful dog Kuki was at the ceremony.
Richard Clayderman: Today
He is touring the world, though not so actively now. The musician had to slow down due to the coronavirus pandemic. For example, the anniversary concert of Richard Clayderman, which was planned to be held in the Russian capital at the end of March 2021, has been postponed to mid-November. It should be noted that the pianist is touring as part of the 40 Years on Stage tour.
