Natalia Strelchenko Murder: Suspect In Court

The partner of international concert pianist Natalia Strelchenko has appeared in court accused of her murder.

John Martin, 48, is accused of killing Ms Strelchenko, who also went by the name Natalia Strelle, at her home in Manchester on Sunday.

He has also been charged with the attempted murder of a boy under the age of 17.

Martin, who has been remanded in custody, made his first appearance before Manchester Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

The suspect, dressed in matching grey jogging bottoms and sweater, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.

The next hearing is scheduled on Friday.

Police and paramedics were called to Ms Strelchenko's home on Culcheth Lane, Newton Heath, at around 12.45am on Sunday after receiving reports a woman had been assaulted.

The 38-year-old was found to have suffered severe head and neck injuries.

Paramedics attempted to revive her at the scene, but she died a short time later in hospital.

Ms Strelchenko, who was of Russian origin, had performed at venues around the world including London's Wigmore Hall and New York's Carnegie Hall to rave reviews.

She made her debut aged 12 with the St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra.

She went on to become an artist in residence at Leeds College of Art and a research fellow at the Norwegian Academy of Music in Oslo.

She had lived in Manchester for around two years.

In a statement, her family said: "Natalia was a talented, beautiful, much-loved mother, daughter, sister and friend. She will be greatly missed."