Solomon (c. 974-c. 922 BC)

In the Old Testament, third king of Israel, son of David by Bathsheba. During a peaceful reign, he was famed for his wisdom and his alliances with Egypt and Phoenicia. The much later biblical Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs are attributed to him. He built the temple in Jerusalem with the aid of heavy taxation and forced labour, resulting in the revolt of northern Israel.

Solomon

Oratorio by Handel (libretto probably by Newburgh Hamilton), performed at Covent Garden, London, on 17 March 1749.

Solomon (1902-1988)

English pianist. He made his debut at the Queen's Hall aged eight, in Tchaikovsky's first piano concerto. He then studied in Paris, beginning his true career in 1923. His brilliant technique and musicianship made him outstanding among modern pianists. He was widely admired in Mozart, Chopin, and Brahms. He was paralysed from 1955.