Natalia Strelchenko: World-famous pianist beaten to death; partner arrested

Gifted pianist Natalia Strelchenko has been found dead with multiple head and neck injuries at her residence in Manchester, England, on Sunday. Her partner, who is a double bass player and her manager, has been arrested on suspicion of the murder.

John Martin, 48, who is understood to be her partner, remains in police custody, reported the Telegraph UK.

A neighbour said that she heard her screams during the early hours of the day and the screams must have been very loud as they could be heard from the down the road. She was given medical treatment at the scene but succumbed to death a short time later. Her neighbours also said that the family was mostly travelling with her son Leo, participating in different international-level competitions.

"Natalia's family, many of whom live outside the UK, are understandably beside themselves at their loss and we are doing everything we can at this time to support them,” said detective superintendent Phil Reade from Greater Manchester Police. “We are determined to find out exactly what has led to Natalia being taken from them in this way."

Her family said in a formal statement, after the news of her death reached them, that, "Natalia was a talented, beautiful, much loved mother, daughter, sister and friend. She will be greatly missed."

Strelchenko, 38, had received worldwide recognition for her talent. She was born in Russia but spent most of her life in Norway, her husband’s native land. In 2009, she along with her family -- comprising of her Martin and son Leo Strelle, 13 -- moved to Britain. Leo is a talented violin player and has performed at a number of concerts along with his parents. They used to call themselves Trio Lenajo.

Also known as Natalia Strelle, she started playing very young and performed her first concert when she was only 12 years old. This year, she has already performed in 17 concerts held at different places across the globe. She was due to perform a Mozart Concerto with the Minsk Chamber Orchestra in Oslo next.

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