13 Facts About Winifred Burston

Winifred Charlotte Hillier Crosse Burston was an Australian pianist and teacher.

Winifred Burston was born near Caboolture, Queensland, of English-born parents, raised in Brisbane, and taught by her mother, an accomplished pianist.

Winifred Burston studied first in Berlin from 1908, under Theodore Bohlmann.

Winifred Burston went back to Berlin in 1911 to study with Ferruccio Busoni, who became a personal friend, and Egon Petri.

Winifred Burston gave a recital at the Aeolian Hall, London, in 1913.

Winifred Burston encouraged the performance of new works from Europe and gave Australian premieres of such pieces as Busoni's Indian Fantasy, Frederick Delius's Piano Concerto and some of Franz Liszt's later compositions.

Winifred Burston promoted piano music by Australian composers and developed an especially warm relationship with Roy Agnew, whose works she performed and whose music she introduced and taught to her pupils.

Winifred Burston travelled interstate as an examiner for the Australian Music Examinations Board until shortly before her death.

Winifred Burston's pupils included Geoffrey Parsons, Richard Meale and Larry Sitsky.

Winifred Burston's interests extended beyond music to the arts generally, and she encouraged her students to read literature such as the works of William Faulkner and Gertrude Stein.

Winifred Burston's ethos was that she would open doors and she would encourage you to explore.

Winifred Burston retired from the Conservatorium in 1964 and was succeeded by Gordon Watson.

Winifred Burston died on 24 June 1976 in Edgecliff, New South Wales and was cremated.