Birdie Blye

Birdice Blye-Richardson (March 24, 1871–June 23, 1935) better known as Birdie Blye, was an American pianist. At 5 years old she was "an infant prodigy" who was taught by the best teachers in the United States and Europe. At the age of 10, she gave concerts in London and other European cities. She was the only American who ever played at so early an age in orchestral concerts.

Blye began her training in New York City under Edmund Neupert and Rafael Joseffy. She then went to the Royal Academy of Music in London. After returning to the U.S., she played concerts in Eastern cities with the Seidl Orchestra. Anton Seidl and William Steinway advised her to study in Germany, which she did for six years, first under Hans von Bülow, then in the Royal Hochschule in Berlin, and finally under Anton Rubinstein. She was the only American pupil Rubinstein ever took. She was twice a guest at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Early years and education Birdice Blye was born in Sioux City, Iowa, (Although Willard and Livermore mention New York City as place of birth, it seems that Sioux City, Iowa is more probable per Lockwood and Cook County Deaths.)