For 40 years, Martin Lovett delighted audiences around the world as part of the Amadeus Quartet, the four-man group that went on to become one of the most famous string quartets of all time. The last surviving member, he passed away on April 29 as a result of complications due to COVID-19.

Lovett was born in London on March 3, 1927. He came from a musical family; his father was a cellist in the Hallé Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra who impressed upon his son an appreciation for the classical instrument and served as his first music teacher.

Earning a scholarship to study at the Royal College of Music at only 15 years old, Lovett chartered his professional course when he met three fellow Jewish men with whom he would build a future legacy.

Norbert Brainin, Siegmund Nissel and Peter Schidlof had fled Austria in 1938 after Hitler’s Anschluss. After studying with violin teacher Max Rostal, they were introduced to Lovett, who, by the age of 19 was already an accomplished cellist. They formed the Amadeus Quartet and made their debut appearance in 1948, kicking off a legendary four-decade run.

They played both the classics and contemporary music with equal skill and aplomb, releasing more than 200 recordings. The Amadus Quartet filled halls on almost every continent, earning the Order of the British Empire, the German Cross of Merit and honorary doctorate degrees in recognition of their contribution to the arts.

Lovett married Suzanne Roszna, whom he met while they studied at the Royal College of Music.

The Quartet stayed active and working until Schidlof’s passing in 1987, when the group officially retired.

Lovett continued with his career, performing with ensembles around the world. He also taught chamber music courses at international institutions, particularly treasuring the annual Amadeus Summer Course he delivered at his alma mater. He was also a popular guest judge at chamber music competitions, where he could be relied upon for his expertise and discerning ear.

After their 55-year marriage, Roszna passed away in 2005.

Lovett is survived by their two children, Peter and Sonia. He is also survived by Dorinde van Oort, who he married in his later years.

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