The Founder

Dr. Géza Kovács (1916-1999), founder of the Kovács Method 

Dr. Géza Kovács, our beloved "Uncle Géza" began his career as a physical education teacher. He served several years in the front lines during World War II. After the war he worked as a scientific researcher in affiliation with various sports bureaus and institutions. He played a leading role in the reconstruction of post-war Hungary's sports life; many significant events in sports history are associated with his name. One of his major accomplishments was the creation of a workplace exercise program in Hungary, which he then directed and supervised for many years. He earned his Ph.D. in pedagogy at the Attila József University of Szeged.

1959, he was invited to the Music Academy to research the ever-increasing number of occupational injuries among artists and students. What caused the tragic deterioration of many of the most outstanding concert artists and talented young people was a mystery to all. At that time neurological complaints were the order of the day, including everything from mild exhaustion and vegetative instability to severe cases of nervous breakdown and suicide. Likewise, injuries caused by overexertion of those parts of the body strained through instrumental playing, serious cases of tendonitis, disfigured posture, and various debilitations were common occurrences.

Urged to find a solution by Zoltán Kodály himself, the directors of the Music Academy sought help. Dr. Géza Kovács accepted the challenge; it was he who brought to light the underlying causes behind the development of musicians' occupational injuries, and he discovered the method for their relief as well. He designed a specialized method of training with which he was able to correct the neurological and physical infirmities and rehabilitate the cases of degeneration.

His achievements attracted more and more attention and the number of participants in his classes soared. Each years hundreds of students and adults took part in his training sessions. Eventually not only instrument players, but persons of non-musical professions came to partake of the benefits he offered. Those seeking advice and eager to learn started coming from all over the world.

Dr. Géza Kovács, whose grateful students still to this day refer to him as "The Musicians' Savior," worked with unceasing spirit in the field of music pedagogy for four decades until his dying day. He published numerous articles and studies, held courses and lectures, and he personally conducted the research and instructional work until the end. Today, many music teachers in Hungary already incorporate the principles of the Kovács Method in their teaching practices.

Throughout the 1990's the founder of the Kovács Method was the celebrated recipient of many awards and distinctions. In 1994 he received the Rector's Commendation from the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, after which followed the Golden Professoriate award.

In recognition of his lifetime achievement, in 1996 Dr. Géza Kovács was presented with he Medal of Honour of the Hungarian Republic by President Arpád Göncz. His musician students, who regained their ability to practice their instruments due to the healing work of "Uncle Géza", celebrated their beloved teacher by giving concerts in his honor on several occasions. He retained his creative vigour and continued productive work until his final day.

He passed away on January 19, 1999 at the age of 83.