Söchting
Emil Söchting (1858-1937) was a German composer and dedicated piano pedagogue. Born in Gröningen, he honed his musical skills at the Royal Institute for Church Music in Berlin, studying with renowned figures like Karl August Haupt and Albert Löschhorn. Crucially, he was a student of Ludwig Deppe, a pioneer of a unique piano playing method emphasizing evenness of tone. Söchting embraced this method in both his teaching and compositions.
He composed extensively, focusing on chamber music, often designed for amateur and student musicians. His works, rooted in the Romantic tradition, are known for their melodic appeal and expressive harmonies. A strong advocate for music education, Söchting also authored pedagogical works, including a "Reform Piano School" likely incorporating Deppe's techniques.
Though not widely known today, Söchting's works, like his Suite for 4 Violins, Op. 58, and various trios, offer accessible and enjoyable experiences for performers and listeners alike. His legacy lies in providing quality music for students and amateurs, contributing to the rich tapestry of the Romantic chamber music repertoire.