Elisabeth, a biography

by Wanda Z. Larson

In this major re-examination of her public and private life, Wanda Larson recreates and interprets one of the most interesting of 20th century lives. Queen Elisabeth of Belgium was not only a predominant factor in Belgium life through two world wars, she was one of her generation's most brilliant musical organizers and patrons. Elisabeth has had a profound influence on contemporary piano competitions and she was crucial in the revival of Vivaldi, Mahler and others. The author discusses the historical context for this unusual life seen against the backdrop of her Bavarian Wittelsbach ancestors, her "accidental" queenship, her popularity with her people and, most of all, her refusal to give up her musical career despite enormous family pressure.