Andrew Lloyd Webber (1948) Mar 22
http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Andrew-Lloyd-Webber-Talks-Longevity-Of-THE-PHANTOM-OF-THE-OPERA-On-Broadway-Beyond-20150502
Progress in Brain Research
Volume 216, 2015, Pages 293–303
Music, Neurology, and Neuroscience: Historical Connections and Perspectives
Chapter 13 – Paul Wittgenstein's right arm and his phantom: the saga of a famous concert pianist and his amputation
Abstract
Reports
of postamputation pain and problems linked to phantom limbs have
increased in recent years, particularly in relation to war-related
amputations. These problems are still poorly understood and are
considered rather mysterious, and they are difficult to treat. In
addition, they may shed light on brain physiology and neuropsychology.
Functional neuroimaging techniques now enable us to better understand
their pathophysiology and to consider new rehabilitation techniques.
Several artists have suffered from postamputation complications and this
has influenced not only their personal life but also their artistic
work. Paul Wittgenstein (1887–1961), a pianist whose right arm was
amputated during the First World War, became a famous left-handed
concert performer. His case provides insight into Post-World War I
musical and political history. More specifically, the impact on the
artistic life of this pianist illustrates various postamputation
complications, such as phantom limb, stump pain, and especially moving
phantom. The phantom movements of his right hand helped him develop the
dexterity of his left hand. Wittgenstein played piano works that were
written especially for him (the most famous being Ravel's Concerto for the Left Hand) and composed some of his own. Additionally, several famous composers had previously written for the left hand.
Keywords
- Phantom limb;
- stump pain;
- moving phantom;
- artistic realization;
- Paul Wittgenstein;
- piano music for the left hand
Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
