A talented composer. Great Russian composers. Mussorgsky's life had everything - both greatness and tragedy, but he was always distinguished by genuine spiritual purity and selflessness

Melodies and songs of the Russian people inspired creativity famous composers second half of the 19th century. Among them were P.I. Tchaikovsky, M.P. Mussorgsky, M.I. Glinka and A.P. Borodin. Their traditions were continued by a whole galaxy of outstanding musical figures. Russian composers of the 20th century are still popular.

Alexander Nikolaevich Scriabin

Creativity of A.N. Scriabin (1872 - 1915), a Russian composer and talented pianist, teacher, and innovator, cannot leave anyone indifferent. In his original and impulsive music, mystical moments are sometimes heard. The composer is attracted and attracted by the image of fire. Even in the titles of his works, Scriabin often repeats words such as fire and light. He tried to find the possibility of combining sound and light in his works.

The composer's father, Nikolai Alexandrovich Scriabin, was a famous Russian diplomat and active state councilor. Mother - Lyubov Petrovna Skryabina (nee Shchetinina), was known as a very talented pianist. She graduated with honors from the St. Petersburg Conservatory. Her professional activity began successfully, but soon after the birth of her son she died of consumption. In 1878, Nikolai Alexandrovich completed his studies and received an appointment to the Russian embassy in Constantinople. The future composer's upbringing was continued by his close relatives - his grandmother Elizaveta Ivanovna, her sister Maria Ivanovna and his father's sister Lyubov Alexandrovna.

Despite the fact that at the age of five Scriabin mastered playing the piano, and a little later began to study musical compositions, according to family tradition, received a military education. He graduated from the 2nd Moscow Cadet Corps. At the same time, he took private lessons in piano and music theory. Later he entered the Moscow Conservatory and graduated with a small gold medal.

At the beginning of its creative activity Scriabin consciously followed Chopin and chose the same genres. However, even at that time his own talent had already emerged. At the beginning of the 20th century, he wrote three symphonies, then “Poem of Ecstasy” (1907) and “Prometheus” (1910). It is interesting that the composer supplemented the score of “Prometheus” with a light keyboard part. He was the first to use light music, the purpose of which is characterized by revealing music by the method of visual perception.

The composer's accidental death interrupted his work. He never realized his plan to create “Mystery” - a symphony of sounds, colors, movements, smells. In this work, Scriabin wanted to tell all of humanity his innermost thoughts and inspire them to create a new world, marked by the union of the Universal Spirit and Matter. His most significant works were only the preface to this grandiose project.

Famous Russian composer, pianist, conductor S.V. Rachmaninov (1873 - 1943) was born into a wealthy noble family. Rachmaninov's grandfather was a professional musician. His first piano lessons were given to him by his mother, and later they invited music teacher A.D. Ornatskaya. In 1885, his parents sent him to a private boarding school with the professor of the Moscow Conservatory N.S. Zverev. Order and discipline in the educational institution had significant influence on the formation of the future character of the composer. He later graduated from the Moscow Conservatory with a gold medal. While still a student, Rachmaninov was very popular among the Moscow public. He has already created his “First Piano Concerto”, as well as some other romances and plays. And his “Prelude in C sharp minor” became a very popular composition. Great P.I. Tchaikovsky drew attention to Sergei Rachmaninov’s graduation work - the opera “Oleko”, which he wrote under the impression of the poem by A.S. Pushkin "Gypsies". Pyotr Ilyich achieved its production at the Bolshoi Theater, tried to help with the inclusion of this work in the theater’s repertoire, but unexpectedly died.

From the age of twenty, Rachmaninov taught at several institutes and gave private lessons. By invitation famous philanthropist, theatrical and musical figure Savva Mamontov, at the age of 24 the composer became the second conductor of the Moscow Russian Private Opera. There he became friends with F.I. Chaliapin.

Rachmaninov's career was interrupted on March 15, 1897 due to the non-acceptance of his innovative First Symphony by the St. Petersburg public. Reviews of this work were truly devastating. But the composer’s biggest disappointment was the negative review left by N.A. Rimsky-Korsakov, whose opinion Rachmaninov greatly valued. After this, he fell into a prolonged depression, which he managed to get out of with the help of hypnotist N.V. Dalia.

In 1901, Rachmaninov completed work on the Second Piano Concerto. And from this moment his active creative activity as a composer and pianist began. Rachmaninov's unique style combined Russian church chants, romanticism and impressionism. He considered melody to be the main leading principle in music. This found its greatest expression in the author’s favorite work, the poem “Bells,” which he wrote for orchestra, choir and soloists.

At the end of 1917, Rachmaninov and his family left Russia, worked in Europe, and then went to America. The composer had a hard time with the break with his homeland. During the Great Patriotic War he gave charity concerts, the proceeds of which he sent to the Red Army Fund.

Stravinsky's music is distinguished by its stylistic diversity. At the very beginning of his creative activity, it was based on Russian musical traditions. And then in the works one can hear the influence of neoclassicism, characteristic of the music of France of that period and dodecaphony.

Igor Stravinsky was born in Oranienbaum (now Lomonosov), in 1882. The father of the future composer Fyodor Ignatievich is a famous Opera singer, one of the soloists Mariinsky Theater. His mother was pianist and singer Anna Kirillovna Kholodovskaya. From the age of nine, teachers taught him piano lessons. After graduating from high school, at the request of his parents, he entered the law faculty of the university. For two years, from 1904 to 1906, he took lessons from N.A. Rimsky-Korsakov, under whose guidance he wrote his first works - a scherzo, a piano sonata, and the suite “Faun and Shepherdess”. Sergei Diaghilev highly appreciated the composer's talent and offered him cooperation. The result of the joint work was three ballets (staged by S. Diaghilev) - “The Firebird”, “Petrushka”, “The Rite of Spring”.

Shortly before the First World War, the composer left for Switzerland, then to France. A new period begins in his work. He studies music XVIII styles century, writes the opera “Oedipus the King” and music for the ballet “Apollo Musagete”. His author's handwriting changed several times over time. The composer lived in the USA for many years. His last famous work is “Requiem”. A special feature of the composer Stravinsky is the ability to constantly change styles, genres and musical directions.

Composer Prokofiev was born in 1891 in a small village in the Yekaterinoslav province. The world of music was opened to him by his mother, a good pianist who often performed works by Chopin and Beethoven. She became a real musical mentor for her son and, in addition, taught him German and French.

At the beginning of 1900, young Prokofiev managed to attend the ballet “The Sleeping Beauty” and listen to the operas “Faust” and “Prince Igor”. The impression received from the performances of Moscow theaters was expressed in his own creativity. He writes the opera "The Giant" and then the overture to "Desert Shores". The parents soon realize that they cannot continue teaching their son music. Soon the aspiring composer, at the age of eleven, was introduced to the famous Russian composer and teacher S.I. Taneyev, who personally asked R.M. Gliera to study musical composition with Sergei. S. Prokofiev passed the entrance exams to the St. Petersburg Conservatory at the age of 13. At the beginning of his career, the composer toured and performed a lot. However, his work caused misunderstanding among the public. This was due to the features of the works, which were expressed in the following:

  • modernist style;
  • destruction of established musical canons;
  • extravagance and ingenuity of compositional techniques

In 1918, S. Prokofiev left and returned only in 1936. Already in the USSR, he wrote music for films, operas, and ballets. But after he was accused, along with a number of other composers, of “formalism”, he practically moved to live in the country, but continued to write musical works. His opera “War and Peace”, ballets “Romeo and Juliet”, “Cinderella” have become the property of world culture.

Russian composers of the 20th century, who lived at the turn of the century, not only preserved the traditions of the previous generation of creative intelligentsia, but also created their own, unique art, for which the works of P.I. remained as models. Tchaikovsky, M.I. Glinka, N.A. Rimsky-Korsakov.

Music is one of the most beautiful creations of humanity. It is capable of influencing the innermost strings of the soul, inducing noble and even...

The most famous composers in the world: list of names, short review works

From Masterweb

20.04.2018 20:00

Music is one of the most beautiful creations of humanity. It is capable of influencing the innermost strings of the soul, inducing noble and even heroic deeds. To write a work that would move the hearts of people for many decades or centuries, you need to be “kissed by God” and have innate talent. We invite you to find out who the most famous composers of classical music are, who created the most famous operas, concerts, symphonies and ballets.

Saint Hildegard of Bingen

This 12th-century nun is considered the “mother of opera.” She recorded more than 70 chants, including the composition Ordo Virtutum. There are 16 female parties of “Virtues” and one male party, personifying the Devil. The music of Saint Hildegard greatly influenced Renaissance composers.

Guillaume Dufay

The illegitimate son of a priest was raised from childhood at the cathedral of the French city of Combray and sang in the church choir.

He was subsequently recognized as the most famous among European composers of the 15th century. Dufay's merit is that he managed to combine medieval techniques with harmonies and phrasing characteristic of early Renaissance. Along with masses, he also wrote chansons. To his song L’homme armé, King Philip the Good gathered troops for a crusade against the Turks.

Giovanni da Palestrina

The composer, also known by the nickname Giannetto, lived in Italy in the 16th century. To him, humanity owes the creation of the phenomenon known as polyphonic singing for Catholic worship.

Thanks to Giannetto, the Council of Trent brought about a reform in church music. Pope Pius the Fourth compared the masses he wrote to the singing that St. John the Apostle “heard in heavenly Jerusalem.”

Antonio Vivaldi

The work “The Seasons” alone by this great Italian is enough for him to be included in the list of “Famous Composers of All Time”. Vivaldi is considered the musician thanks to whom the transition from heavy-sounding baroque music to light classical music took place. Along with serious works, he wrote many charming serenades, and also went down in history as a genius who was able to create a 3-act opera in 5 days.

Moreover, many historians believe that it was he who, more than his other contemporary colleagues, influenced the formation of many famous classical composers of subsequent generations.

George Frideric Handel

Already at the age of 11, young Georg was a court harpsichordist at the court of the Elector of Berlin. He was born in the same year as Johann Sebastian Bach, but unlike the latter, he was not a hereditary musician.

As a famous composer, Handel told one of his admirers that his goal was always to make people better through his music.

Johann Sebastian Bach

The most famous composers of the 19th and 20th centuries more than once called this great musician their teacher. In total, he wrote more than 1,000 works and went down in history as one of the most virtuoso organists of all time. In addition, Johann Sebastian Bach is recognized as a master of polyphony, as well as the creator of masterpieces of keyboard music.

Ludwig van Beethoven, born 20 years after the death of his elder colleague, called him “the true father of harmony,” and famous philosopher Georg Hegel - "an erudite genius."

Subsequently, many famous composers, such as Liszt, Schumann, Brahms, etc., wanting to express their respect to him, included Bach’s musical phrases in their works.

Franz Joseph Haydn

The musician lived his entire life in Austria and, in his own words, was “doomed to become original,” since he was isolated from other composers and did not have the opportunity to get acquainted with the trends of contemporary music.

Only at the age of 47 could Haydn change the terms of the contract, according to which for 18 years all his works were considered the property of the Hungarian magnate Esterhazy clan. This allowed him to write the kind of music he wanted and achieve international fame.

In the field of writing instrumental music Haydn is rightly considered one of the most famous composers of the second half of the XVIII and the beginning of the 19th centuries.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart


There is probably no such famous classical music composer whose works are as popular today as Mozart’s compositions. Even many rock stars perform them in modern adaptations and use them as accompaniment for famous rappers.

Amadeus's musical heritage amounts to more than six hundred compositions. He belongs to the geniuses whose musical talent manifested itself in the very early age. Already at the age of 5, Wolfgang began to write his first works, and at 6 he could play the harpsichord and violin excellently.

The composer’s masterpieces include “Requiem”, “The Marriage of Figaro”, “Turkish March”, “Little Night Serenade”, “Don Juan”, 41 symphonies, etc. They amaze with their perfection and ease of perception. Even those who do not consider themselves fans of classical music enjoy listening to arias from the composer’s operas.

Giuseppe Verdi

Those who are interested in vocal art will recognize that one of the most famous composers who worked in this genre is, of course, Giuseppe Verdi. His operas are most often staged on the most famous stages around the world. Many of Verdi's arias are among the most performed classical works.

During his lifetime, the composer was often criticized for pandering to tastes common people. However, subsequent generations recognized many of his works as masterpieces of world art. They are particularly melodious and can be easily reproduced even by those who do not have any special skills. musical ear and singing talent.

Ludwig van Beethoven


The composer is recognized as a key figure who ensured the transition from romanticism to classicism. Beethoven wrote in all contemporary musical genres. However, his instrumental works are best known, including his overtures, symphonies, sonatas and several concertos for violin and piano.

One of the composer’s most frequently performed works is “Ode to Joy,” which was included in Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. It is recognized as the official EU anthem.

Richard Wagner


In the list of "Famous" music composers Germany of the 19th century” Wagner occupies a special place, as he is considered a kind of revolutionary. His works are distinguished by rich chromaticism, harmony and orchestration. Wagner introduced the concept of leitmotif into musical art: a theme associated with a specific character, as well as plot and place. In addition, the composer is the founder of musical drama, who had a great influence on the development of classical music.

Johann Strauss


When listing the names of famous composers, they often indicate only musicians who created and are creating serious works. However, the king of the waltz, Johann Strauss, certainly deserves to be included among the people who made the greatest contribution to the development of the musical culture of mankind.

In total, Strauss wrote more than 500 works in the dance genre. Many of his waltzes are still popular today, and are listened to even by those who are not fans of classical music.

Frederic Chopin

This Polish composer is considered one of the most prominent representatives of romanticism in world musical culture. In addition, Chopin is the founder of the Polish school of composition. He contributed a lot to the recognition and increasing the authority of his homeland in Europe. Among the works of this famous composer, a special place is occupied by waltzes, which are considered to be a kind of autobiography of Chopin

Antonin Dvorak

The famous Czech composer made a huge contribution to the development of Czech national music. Among other things, he was a virtuoso violinist and violist. He managed to gain worldwide popularity, as classical music lovers were attracted by the symbiosis of elements of the national music of Bohemia and Moravia with European classics.

Dvorzek's most famous works include Symphony No. 9 "From the New World", "Requiem", the opera "Rusalka", "Slavic Dances", "American" String Quartet and Stabat Mater.

Famous composers of Russia

Our country has made a significant contribution to the development of the musical culture of mankind.

The most famous composers of Russia are:

  • Mikhail Glinka. The composer, who worked in the first half of the 19th century, was the first to create large-scale works based on Russian folk songs. His most famous work is the opera “Ivan Susanin”, in which Glinka managed to combine the traditions of Russian choral singing and European opera art.
  • Pyotr Tchaikovsky. This great musician is one of the most famous composers in the world.

Tchaikovsky considered one of his most important missions to be increasing the glory of his homeland. And he succeeded to the fullest, since today melodies from his works are performed in all corners of the planet, and his ballets are staged on the most famous stage venues in the world. Tchaikovsky's works are especially famous, such as the ballets " Swan Lake", "The Nutcracker", "Sleeping Beauty", etc.

  • Sergei Prokofiev. The ballet "Romeo and Juliet" by this composer is considered one of best works this genre of the 20th century. His achievements also include the creation own style, recognized as a new word in world musical art.
  • Dmitry Shostakovich. During the siege of Leningrad, the whole world was shocked by the premiere performance of " Leningrad Symphony"by the composer. Shostakovich managed to convey through the language of music the determination of the city’s defenders to fight to the last drop of blood. Despite persecution and accusations of bourgeois decadence, the composer continued to create original works that put him on par with the most famous composers of the 20th century.

Famous composers of our time

It just so happens that the general public today has very little interest in serious music. Most often, fame comes to composers if they write music for films. Among the most popular composers last decades the following can be distinguished:

  • Michel Legrand. Initially, the composer gained fame as a virtuoso pianist and conductor of classical music. However, he gained wide popularity thanks to his film works. His music for the opera film The Umbrellas of Cherbourg brought Legrand his first Oscar nomination. Later, the composer received this award three times, and also received the Benois Dance Prize for the ballet Liliom.
  • Ludovico Einaudi. This Italian composer prefers a minimalist style, and also successfully combines classics with other musical styles. Einaudi is known to a wide circle of music lovers for his soundtracks; for example, everyone is familiar with the melody he wrote for the French film “1 + 1”.
  • Philip Glass. The composer initially worked in the field of classical music, but over time he was able to blur the line between it and modern musical trends. For several decades now, Glass has been playing in his own group, the Philip Glass Ensemble. Film buffs are familiar with his works written for the films “The Illusionist”, “The Truman Show”, “Taste of Life” and “Fantastic Four”.
  • Giovanni Marradi. The composer has nothing to do with cinema, but has gained popularity thanks to the retro-classical sound of his works, in which he uses motifs from previous centuries.

Now you know the names of the most famous composers. The music they created in different centuries, and today is capable of awakening the kindest and high feelings, even in the hardened souls of people who have forgotten about high ideals.

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Famous musicians

Adan Adolph Charles(1803–1856) - French composer, romanticist, author of the ballets “Giselle” and “Corsair”.

Aznavour Charles (Aznauryan Varenag)(b. 1924) - French chansonnier, composer, film actor, author and performer of many songs; had a huge impact on the mass musical culture France and all of Europe.

Alyabyev Alexander Alexandrovich(1787–1851) - Russian composer, author of many songs and romances (“The Nightingale”, “Beggar Woman”, etc.), as well as operas, ballets, chamber and instrumental works.

Armstrong Louis(1901–1971) - trumpeter, vocalist, often called the "Father of Jazz". Louis Armstrong is one of the most popular personalities in the musical art of the 20th century, with whom the public identifies traditional jazz.

Balakirev Miliy Alekseevich(1836 (1837)-1910) - Russian composer, pianist, conductor, head and one of the founders of " Mighty bunch" - a creative community of Russian composers that formed in the late 1850s - early 1860s.

Balanchine George (Balanchivadze Georgy Melitonovich)(1904–1963) - American choreographer, founder of the famous ballet troupe"New York City Ballet".

Bartok Bela(1881–1945) - Hungarian composer, pianist and musicologist-folklorist. Combining elements of folklore with techniques of the musical avant-garde (expressionism, etc.), he became one of the most profound and influential innovators in the music of the 20th century.

Bach Johann Sebastian(1685–1750) - German composer, author of about 1000 works of various genres, master of polyphony (preludes and fugues, St. Matthew Passion, etc.).

Bashmet Yuri Abramovich(b. 1953) - Russian violist, teacher. The first performer of many works for viola by modern composers.

Berlioz Hector Louis(1803–1869) - French innovative composer, conductor, author of the Symphony Fantastique, creator new school conducting.

Bernstein Leonard(1918–1990) - American composer and conductor, author of music for many famous musicals (West Side Story, etc.).

Berry Chuck(R. 1926) - famous American singer, composer, one of the founders of rock and roll.

Beethoven Ludwig van(1770–1827) - German composer, major symphonist. Most of Beethoven's works are considered masterpieces of world music (Moonlight Sonata, IX Symphony, etc.).

Bizet Georges (1838–1875) - French composer, author of operas (Carmen, etc.).

Borodin Alexander Porfirievich(1833–1887) - Russian composer and chemist, one of the creators of Russian classical symphonies and quartets.

Bortnyansky Dmitry Stepanovich(1751–1825) - Russian and Ukrainian composer, author of sacred music, works for choir, etc.

Brahms Johannes(1833–1897) - German composer and conductor, representative of romanticism.

Wagner Richard(1813–1883) - German composer, conductor, opera reformer. The tetralogy “The Ring of the Nibelung” is written on its own libretto, based on German national mythology. Wagner is also the author of the operas Tristan and Isolde, Parsifal, and others.

Verdi Giuseppe(1813–1901) - Italian composer, whose work is the pinnacle of the development of Italian opera and operatic art around the world (operas Aida, Rigoletto, La Traviata, etc.).

Vertinsky Alexander Nikolaevich(1889–1957) - Russian poet and composer, performer of his own songs, one of the founders of the art song genre.

Vivaldi Antonio(1678–1741) - Italian composer, violinist, conductor; created the genre of solo instrumental concert.

Vysotsky Vladimir Semenovich(1938–1980) - Soviet poet, musician, actor, author of hundreds of songs based on his own poems. As a songwriter and performer own composition with guitar gained wide popularity.

Haydn Franz Joseph(1732–1809) - Austrian composer, teacher of Beethoven. His works are characterized by harmony and proportionality of proportions.

Handel Georg Friedrich(1685–1759) - German composer, author of many operas and oratorios that combine powerful choruses and strict architecture.

Gershwin George(1898–1937) - American composer and pianist. Together with his brother Ira, George Gershwin composed more than three dozen musicals for theater and film. Among George Gershwin's best works are Rhapsody in Blue for piano and jazz orchestra and the opera Porgy and Bess, which many critics consider the peak of the composer's work and one of the best (if not the best) American opera.

Gillespie John "Dizzy" Burks(1917–1993) - American jazz trumpeter virtuoso, organizer of one of the most famous jazz orchestras in the history of music, author of many jazz compositions.

Glinka Mikhail Ivanovich(1804–1857) - Russian composer, creator of Russian national epic operas and many popular romances.

Glier Reingold Moritsevich(1874–1956) - Russian Soviet composer, conductor, teacher (ballet “Don Quixote”).

Gluck Christoph Willibald(1714–1787) - German composer, representative of classicism, opera reformer.

Grig Edward(1843–1907) - Norwegian composer, pianist, musical figure, conductor.

Gounod Charles(1818–1893) - French composer, one of the largest representatives of French opera of the 19th century. The pinnacle of creativity is the opera "Faust".

Dankevich Konstantin Fedorovich(1905–1984) - Ukrainian composer and musicologist, author of the opera “Bogdan Khmelnytsky”, ballet “Liley”, etc.

Dargomyzhsky Alexander Sergeevich(1813–1869) - Russian composer (opera “Rusalka”, etc.). Along with M.I. Glinka, he was the founder of Russian classical school music.

Dassin Joe(1938–1980) - French singer, composer, whose songs were very popular in the 1960s and 1970s.

Dvorak Antonin(1841–1904) - Czech composer, conductor, one of the founders of the Czech music school classical music.

Debussy Claude Achille(1862–1918) - French composer, considered the founder of the so-called musical impressionism.

Dylan Bob (Robert Allen Zimmerman)(b. 1941) - American rock musician, according to most critics, who influenced the development of popular music (and not just rock) more than anyone else in the post-war period, and his work became a role model for several generations of rock musicians musicians.

Domingo Placido(b. 1941) - Spanish singer (tenor) and conductor, one of the most outstanding singers in the history of opera.

Donizetti Gaetano(1797–1848) - Italian composer (operas “Lucia di Lammermoor”, “Don Pasquale”, etc.), master of the art of bel canto.

Dunaevsky Isaac Osipovich(1900–1955) - Soviet composer, the greatest master of Soviet mass song and operetta.

Caballe Montserrat(b. 1933) - Spanish singer (soprano). One of the outstanding modern singers Bel Canto.

Callas Maria (Maria Kalogeropoulos)(1923–1977) - Greek singer, had a wide range of voices, one of greatest singers in the history of music, was a soloist in the world's largest theaters.

Kalman Imre(1882–1953) - Hungarian composer, master of classical Viennese operetta (“Silva”, etc.).

Carreras Jose(b. 1947) - Spanish opera singer, tenor, has a deep in a beautiful voice, along with P. Domingo and L. Pavarotti, has long been one of the three best tenors of our time.

Caruso Enrico(1873–1921) - Italian singer, one of the greatest tenors in the history of opera, master of bel canto.

Clyburn Van (Clyburn Harvey Laban)(b. 1934) - American pianist, winner of the 1st International Competition. P.I. Tchaikovsky in Moscow (1958).

Kozlovsky Ivan Semenovich(1900–1995) - Russian Soviet singer, lyric tenor, soloist Bolshoi Theater(1926–1954), one of the best performers of his time.

Leghar Ferenc (Franz)(1870–1948) - composer, outstanding master of Viennese operetta (“The Merry Widow”).

Lemeshev Sergey Yakovlevich(1902–1977) - an outstanding Russian opera singer, lyric tenor. The owner of the most delicate timbre, an inimitable performer of songs and romances.

Lennon John(1940–1980) - British rock musician, singer, poet, composer, artist, writer. Founder and member of The Beatles, one of the most popular musicians of the 20th century.

Leoncavallo Ruggiero(1857–1919) - Italian opera composer, whose works were and are very successful (the operas “Pagliacci”, “La Bohème”, etc.).

Leontovich Nikolai Dmitrievich(1877–1921) - Ukrainian composer, author of many arrangements folk melodies. Founder of the first Ukrainian symphony orchestra.

Liszt Ferenc(1811–1886) - an outstanding Hungarian composer, conductor and pianist. He created a school of concert piano performance.

Lloyd-Webber Andrew(b. 1948) - famous British composer, author of musicals and rock operas (“Jesus Christ Superstar”; “Phantom of the Opera”, etc.).

Lysenko Nikolay Vitalievich(1842–1912) - composer, conductor, founder of the Ukrainian national music school, contributed to the formation of Ukrainian opera.

Lyudkevich Stanislav Filippovich (Pilipovich)(1879–1979) - Ukrainian composer and musicologist, one of the largest Ukrainian symphonists.

Miles Davis(1926–1991) - American jazz trumpeter, one of the most prominent jazzmen in the history of music. Since the late 1960s he has performed in the jazz-rock style.

McCartney James Paul(b. 1942) - British rock musician, singer and composer, one of the founders of The Beatles.

Mahler Gustav(1860–1911) - Austrian composer and conductor, one of the largest symphonists of the 19th and 20th centuries. In 1908–1909 he was conductor of the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and in 1909–1911 he directed the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.

Mendelssohn-Bartholdy Jacob Ludwig Felix(1809–1847) - German composer, organist, conductor and public figure, founder of the first German conservatory. Author of the “Italian”, “Scottish” symphonies, etc.

Mercury Freddie(1956–1991) - British singer and musician, vocalist of the legendary rock band Queen. Until now, many years after death, he is one of the most popular singers in the world.

Miller Glenn(1904–1944) - American trombonist, arranger, leader of one of the best swing orchestras of the late 1930s - early 1940s.

Morricone Ennio(b. 1928) - Italian composer, arranger, conductor, one of the most famous composers writing music for cinema.

Mozart Wolfgang Amadeus(1756–1791) - Austrian composer, one of the greatest in the history of music. He had an outstanding melodic gift (the operas “The Magic Flute” and others, “Little Night Serenade”, created about 600 works of various genres). He composed music from the age of five and performed as a performer from the age of six.

Mussorgsky Modest Petrovich(1839–1881) - Russian composer. He created monumental folk musical dramas (“Boris Godunov”, “Khovanshchina”), dramatic scenes (“Pictures at an Exhibition”), etc.

Oistrakh David Fedorovich(1908–1974) - Soviet virtuoso violinist, teacher, one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century.

Offenbach Jacques(1819–1880) - French composer, one of the founders of classical French operetta (“Beautiful Helen”, “Pericola”, etc.).

Pavarotti Luciano(1935–2007) - an outstanding Italian singer, one of the most outstanding tenors in the history of music.

Paganini Niccolo(1782–1840) - Italian virtuoso violinist and composer. One of the most prominent personalities in the musical history of the 18th–19th centuries. Recognized genius of the world musical art.

Pauls Raymond(b. 1936) - Latvian composer, pianist, author of many songs, musicals, film scores, etc.

Petrusenko Oksana Andreevna(1900–1940) - Ukrainian Soviet singer (lyric-dramatic soprano), who had a voice of a unique timbre.

Piaf Edith (Gacion)(1915–1963) - French singer and an actress, one of the greatest pop singers peace.

Presley Elvis(1935–1977) - legendary American rock singer and film actor, “King of Rock and Roll.”

Prokofiev Sergey Sergeevich(1891–1953) - Russian innovative composer, one of the largest composers of the 20th century.

Puccini Giacomo (1858-1924) - Italian composer who combined lyricism with heroism and tragedy in his operas (Tosca, La Bohème, etc.).

Ravel Maurice(1875–1937) - French composer and performing pianist. The most famous work is “Bolero”.

Rachmaninov Sergei Vasilievich(1873–1943) - Russian composer, pianist and conductor. He played the piano from the age of four. Operas, romances, concerts, etc. combine stormy, passionate impulses and poetic contemplation in music. One of the greatest pianists in the history of music.

Rimsky-Korsakov Nikolai Andreevich(1844–1908) - Russian composer, teacher, conductor, public figure, musical critic; member of the “Mighty Handful”, author of 15 operas, 3 symphonies, symphonic works, instrumental concerts, cantatas, chamber instrumental, vocal and sacred music.

Richter Svyatoslav Teofilovich(1915–1997) - Soviet pianist, outstanding performer.

Rossini Gioacchino(1792–1868) - Italian composer. The pinnacle of his creativity was the opera " Barber of Seville" He also created numerous vocal and piano miniatures.

Rostropovich Mstislav Leopoldovich(1927–2007) - an outstanding cellist, conductor and public figure.

Rota Nino(1911–1979) - Italian composer, author of music for many films by Federico Fellini, as well as for the film " Godfather» Francis Ford Coppola.

Sviridov Georgy (Yuri) Vasilievich(1915–1998) - Russian Soviet composer and pianist. Author of music for the works of A. S. Pushkin, S. A. Yesenin and others, sacred music.

Saint-Saens Charles Camille(1835–1921) - French composer, pianist, conductor, music critic and public figure. Author of numerous works of various musical genres, the most famous of which are the opera “Samson and Delilah”, the 3rd symphony (with organ), the symphonic poem “Dance of Death”, the 3rd concert and “Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso” (1863) for violin and orchestra.

Sibelius Jan(1865–1957) - Finnish composer, founder of the national Finnish romantic style. In his work he used the rhythmic and harmonic features of Finnish folklore.

Sinatra Francis Albert(1915–1998) - American singer, one of the most popular in the history of American pop music.

Skryabin Alexander Nikolaevich(1872–1915) - Russian composer and pianist. Scriabin's mystical philosophy was reflected in his musical language, especially in innovative harmony, far beyond the boundaries of traditional tonality. The score of his symphonic “Poem of Fire” (“Prometheus”) includes a light keyboard: searchlight rays different colors should change on the screen synchronously with changes in themes, keys, chords.

Smetana Bedřich(1824–1884) - Czech composer, conductor, pianist, author of the operas “The Bartered Bride”, “Libushe” (based on the Zelenogorsk manuscript and genuine Czech legends), a cycle of symphonic poems “My Country” (the second one is especially famous - “Vltava”) .

Spivakov Vladimir Teodorovich(b. 1944) - Russian violinist, conductor. Since 1979, he has been the director of the Moscow Virtuosi orchestra, which quickly won recognition and love from the public. Laureate of many international competitions.

Stravinsky Igor Fedorovich(1882–1971) - Russian and later American composer and conductor. Stravinsky's ballets (The Rite of Spring, etc.) were successfully demonstrated by S. P. Diaghilev at the Russian Seasons in Paris. He turned to ancient and biblical subjects.

Utesov Leonid Osipovich(1895–1982) - Russian and Soviet pop artist, singer and film actor, National artist THE USSR. One of the founders of Soviet jazz and Russian chanson.

Fitzgerald Ella Jane(1917–1996) - American jazz singer, recognized as one of the greatest vocalists in jazz history.

Khachaturyan Aram Ilyich(1903–1978) - Armenian composer, conductor, teacher. His work uniquely combined the traditions of world and national musical art (ballets “Gayane”, “Spartacus”, etc.).

Tchaikovsky Pyotr Ilyich(1840–1893) - Russian composer, one of the best melodists, conductor, teacher, musical and public figure.

Shalyapin Fedor Ivanovich(1873–1938) - great Russian opera singer, bass, one of the most famous singers in the world.

Schnittke Alfred Garrievich(1934–1998) - Russian composer, pianist, music theorist and teacher (author of articles on Russian and Soviet composers), one of the most significant musical figures of the late 20th century.

Chopin Frederic(1810–1849) - Polish composer (études, nocturnes, waltzes, polonaises, piano concertos, etc.), virtuoso pianist. Author of numerous works for piano.

Shostakovich Dmitry Dmitrievich(1906–1975) - Russian Soviet composer, pianist, teacher and public figure, one of the most significant composers of the 20th century, who has contributed and continues to provide creative influence on composers.

Strauss Johann(1825–1899) - Austrian composer, the greatest master of the Viennese waltz and Viennese operetta, “The Waltz King”. He created a huge number of works: 168 waltzes, 117 polkas, 73 quadrilles, 43 marches, 31 mazurkas, 16 operettas, comic opera and ballet.

Strauss Richard(1864–1949) - German composer and conductor, author of many symphonic poems and operas.

Schubert Franz(1797–1828) - Austrian composer. Waltzes, fantasies, impromptu, symphonies, etc. Created over 600 songs. The first major representative of musical romanticism, one of the largest melodists.

Schumann Robert(1810–1856) - German composer, romanticist. His work fostered high musical culture, beauty and strength of human feelings (symphonies, oratorio “Paradise and Peri”, etc.).

This text is an introductory fragment. From the book 100 Great Secrets of the Third Reich author Vedeneev Vasily Vladimirovich

“The Musicians of Bremen” In the mid-30s of the 20th century, when the famous “silent colonel” Walter Nicolai took the chair of the head of military intelligence of the Third Reich, he began to diligently court the Japanese, trying to forge a strong “Berlin-Tokyo” axis. This axis

From the book The Newest Book of Facts. Volume 2 [Mythology. Religion] author Kondrashov Anatoly Pavlovich

From the book Fraud in Russia author Romanov Sergey Alexandrovich

Musicians Well, if someone has ever learned to play any musical instrument, - then all the cards are in hand. Givers will not forgive the hack work of an adult asking musician. But a child who plays a false note on a child’s harmonica, trumpet or guitar will be paid

From the book Famous Killers, Famous Victims author Mazurin Oleg

Oleg Mazurin FAMOUS KILLERS, FAMOUS VICTIMS Two killers are milling around the entrance, waiting for a client. One of them is visibly worried. Another, watching how nervous his partner is, asks him with a grin: “What are you, bro, are you worried?” - Yes, the client took a long time

From the book Countries and Peoples. Questions and answers author Kukanova Yu. V.

In what country did the Bremen musicians live? Germany as a country appeared on the world map only from the middle of the 19th century. Until this time, several small principalities existed on its territory, among which were “free cities”. Since then, Bavaria has remained on the map of the country,

From the book 100 greats mystical secrets author Bernatsky Anatoly

From the book Great Soviet Encyclopedia (BA) by the author TSB

Bach (German musicians, sons of J. S. Bach) Bach (Bach), German musicians, sons of J. S. Bach. Wilhelm Friedemann B. (11/22/1710, Weimar, - 7/1/1784, Berlin), composer and organist. Eldest son of J. S. Bach. Of all the sons famous composer closest to him in character

From the book Disasters of the Body [The influence of stars, deformation of the skull, giants, dwarfs, fat men, hairy men, freaks...] author Kudryashov Viktor Evgenievich

Armless musicians Among the famous armless artists there were those who were no less famous as musicians. Among them is Jean de Ono from Brussels, who was a skilled mandolin player and had excellent control of the brush, holding it in the toes: And Gottfried Dietze, good

From the book I Explore the World. Insects author Lyakhov Peter

Tireless musicians – grasshoppers Who is not familiar with grasshoppers! They can be found everywhere: in the forest, in the field or in the meadow. They are known as tireless musicians, enlivening nature all summer with their cheerful chirping, and also as excellent jumpers. Grasshoppers are able to jump

author Serov Vadim Vasilievich

And you, friends, no matter how you sit down, / You are still not fit to be musicians. From the fable “Quartet” (1811) by I. A. Krylov (1769-1844). Contemporaries believed; that this fable was written as a satirical response to the reform of the State Council, which was divided by the will of Emperor Alexander I in 1810.

From the book Encyclopedic Dictionary of Catchwords and Expressions author Serov Vadim Vasilievich

No matter how you sit down, / You’re still not fit to be musicians. And you, friends, no matter how you sit down / You’re still not fit to be musicians

author Kolosova Svetlana

Great classical musicians and composers 3 Ars, Nikolai Andreevich - Russian composer late XIX- early 20th centuries. Bach, Johann Sebastian - German composer of the 18th century.4 Bizet, Georges - French composer of the 19th century, pianist. Liszt, Ferenc - Hungarian composer of the 19th century,

From the book Crossword Guide author Kolosova Svetlana

Popular foreign musicians and performers of the 20th century 2 Rea, Chris - Irish composer, singer.3 Bush, Kate - English singer, composer. Dio, Ronnie James - American singer. Eno, Brian - English singer, composer. Moore, Gary - Irish singer, composer,

From the book Crossword Guide author Kolosova Svetlana

Popular Russian musicians of the 20th century and performers 3 Mon, AlisaTsoi, Victor5 Apina, AlenaVarum, AnzhelikaGubin, AndreyLindaMetov, KaySerov, AlexanderChaika, VictorShturm, Natalya6 Agutin, LeonidGlyzin, AlexeyDolina, LarisaKinchev, KonstantinKobzon, IosifOtieva,

From the book When Can You Applaud? A Guide for Classical Music Lovers by Hope Daniel

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From the book Muse and Grace. Aphorisms author Dushenko Konstantin Vasilievich

MUSICIANS Musicians want us to be mute just when we most want to be deaf. Oscar Wilde (1854–1900), English writer* * *Are you asking how this virtuoso played? There was something human in his play: he was wrong. Stanisław Jerzy Lec (1909–1966), Polish poet and

1. “Symphony No. 5”, Ludwig van Beethoven

According to legend, Beethoven (1770-1827) for a long time could not come up with an introduction to Symphony No. 5. But when he lay down to take a nap, he heard a knock on the door, and the rhythm of this knock became the introduction to this work. Interestingly, the first notes of the symphony correspond to the number 5, or V in Morse code.

2. O Fortuna, Carl Orff

Composer Carl Orff (1895-1982) is best known for this cantata with dramatic vocals. It is based on the 13th century poem “Carmina Burana”. It is one of the most frequently performed classical pieces around the world.

3. Hallelujah Chorus, George Frideric Handel

George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) wrote the oratorio Messiah in 24 days. Many melodies, including "Hallelujah", were later borrowed from this work and began to be performed as independent works. According to legend, Handel had music played in his head by angels. The text of the oratorio is based on biblical stories, Handel reflected the life, death and resurrection of Christ.

4. “Ride of the Valkyries”, Richard Wagner

This composition is taken from the opera "Die Walküre", which is part of the cycle of operas "The Ring of the Nibelung" by Richard Wagner (1813-1883). The opera "Valkyrie" is dedicated to the daughter of the god Odin. Wagner spent 26 years composing this opera, and it is only the second part of a grandiose masterpiece of four operas.

5. “Toccata and Fugue in D minor”, ​​Johann Sebastian Bach

This is probably the most famous work by Bach (1685-1750) and is often used in films during dramatic scenes.

6. “Little Night Serenade”, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

(1756-1791) wrote this legendary 15-minute composition in just a week. It was officially published in 1827.

7. “Ode to Joy”, Ludwig van Beethoven

Another of Beethoven's masterpieces was completed in 1824. This is the most famous fragment of Symphony No. 9. The most amazing thing is that by that time Beethoven had already become deaf and... nevertheless, he managed to compose such an outstanding work.

8. “Spring”, Antonio Vivaldi

Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741) - composer of the Baroque era, wrote four works in 1723, each of which personified one season. The Four Seasons are still very popular, especially Spring and Summer.

9. “Pachelbel Canon” (Canon in D major), Johann Pachelbel

Johann Pachelbel (1653-1706) was a composer of the Baroque era and is considered the most influential composer of this period. He amazed the world with his sophisticated and technical music.

10. Overture from the opera “William Tell”, Gioachino Rossini

This 12-minute composition by Gioachino Rossini (1792-1868) is the last part of a four-movement overture. The other pieces are less well known today, but the composition was made famous by its use in Warner Brother's Disney Looney Tunes cartoons.

English version

Listen to something from the classics - what could be better?! Especially on weekends, when you want to relax, forget about the worries of the day, the worries of the work week, dream about beautiful things, and just lift your spirits. Just think about it, classical works were created by brilliant authors so long ago that it’s hard to believe that something can survive so many years. And these works are still loved and listened to, arrangements and modern interpretations are created. Even in modern adaptation, the works of brilliant composers remain classical music. As he admits Vanessa Mae, classical works are ingenious, and everything ingenious cannot be boring. Probably all great composers have a special ear, a special sensitivity to tone and melody, which allowed them to create music that is enjoyed by dozens of generations not only of their compatriots, but also of classical music fans around the world. If you still doubt whether you love classical music, then you need to meet Benjamin Zander and you will see that in fact, you are already a long-time fan of beautiful music.

And today we will talk about the 10 most famous composers in the world.

Johann Sebastian Bach


First place deservedly belongs Johann Sebastian Bach. A genius was born in Germany. The most talented composer wrote music for harpsichord and organ. The composer did not create a new style in music. But he was able to create perfection in all the styles of his time. He is the author of more than 1000 essays. In his works Bach combined different musical styles with which he became acquainted throughout his life. Often musical romanticism was combined with the Baroque style. In life Johann Bach As a composer he did not receive the recognition he deserved, interest in his music arose almost 100 years after his death. Today he is called one of the greatest composers who ever lived on earth. His uniqueness as a person, teacher and musician was reflected in his music. Bach laid the foundations of the music of New and Contemporary times, dividing the history of music into pre-Bach and post-Bach. There is an opinion that music Bach gloomy and gloomy. His music is rather fundamental and thorough, restrained and focused. Like the reflections of a mature, world-wise person. Creation Bach influenced many composers. Some of them took cues from his works or used themes from them. And musicians all over the world play music Bach, admiring her beauty and perfection. One of the most sensational works - "Brandenburg Concerts"- excellent proof that music Bach can't be considered too gloomy:


Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is rightfully considered a genius. At the age of 4 he was already fluent in playing the violin and harpsichord, at the age of 6 he began composing music, and at 7 he was already skillfully improvising on the harpsichord, violin and organ, competing with famous musicians. Already at 14 years old Mozart- a recognized composer, and at the age of 15 - a member of the music academies of Bologna and Verona. By nature, he had a phenomenal ear for music, memory and the ability to improvise. He created an astonishing number of works - 23 operas, 18 sonatas, 23 piano concertos, 41 symphonies and much more. The composer did not want to imitate, he tried to create a new model that reflected the new individuality of the music. It is no coincidence that in Germany music Mozart called “music of the soul”, in his works the composer showed traits of his sincere, loving nature. The greatest melodist attached special importance to opera. Operas Mozart- an era in the development of this type of musical art. Mozart widely recognized as one of the greatest composers: his uniqueness lies in the fact that he worked in all musical forms of his time and achieved the highest success in all of them. One of the most recognizable works - "Turkish March":


Ludwig van Beethoven

Another great German Ludwig van Beethoven was an important figure of the Romantic-Classical period. Even those who know nothing about it know about it classical music. Beethoven is one of the most performed and respected composers in the world. Great composer witnessed the enormous upheavals that occurred in Europe and redrew its map. These great upheavals, revolutions and military confrontations are reflected in the composer’s work, especially symphonic works. He embodied pictures of heroic struggle in music. In immortal works Beethoven you will hear the struggle for freedom and brotherhood of people, the unshakable faith in the victory of light over darkness, as well as dreams of freedom and happiness for mankind. One of the most famous and amazing facts his life - the ear disease developed into complete deafness, but despite this, the composer continued to write music. He was also considered one of the best pianists. Music Beethoven surprisingly simple and easy to understand wide circles listeners. Generations and even eras change, and music Beethoven still excites and delights the hearts of people. One of his best works - "Moonlight Sonata":


Richard Wagner

With the name of the great Richard Wagner most often associated with his masterpieces "Wedding Choir" or "Ride of the Valkyries". But he is known not only as a composer, but also as a philosopher. Wagner considered his musical works as a way of expressing a certain philosophical concept. WITH Wagner a new one has begun musical era oper. The composer tried to bring opera closer to life; music for him is only a means. Richard Wagner- creator of musical drama, reformer of operas and the art of conducting, innovator of the harmonic and melodic language of music, creator of new forms musical expressiveness. Wagner- author of the world's longest solo aria (14 minutes 46 seconds) and the world's longest classical opera (5 hours and 15 minutes). In life Richard Wagner was considered a controversial person, who was either adored or hated. And often both together. Mystical symbolism and anti-Semitism made him Hitler's favorite composer, but closed the way for his music to Israel. However, neither supporters nor opponents of the composer deny his greatness as a composer. Wonderful music from the very first notes Richard Wagner absorbs you completely, leaving no room for disputes and disagreements:


Franz Schubert

Austrian composer Franz Schubert - musical genius, one of the best song composers. He was only 17 when he wrote his first song. In one day he could write 8 songs. For my creative life he created more than 600 compositions, based on poems by more than 100 great poets, including Goethe, Schiller and Shakespeare. That's why Franz Schubert in the top 10. Although creativity Schubert very diverse in the use of genres, ideas and reincarnations, the predominant and defining thing in his music is vocal and song lyrics. Before Schubert the song was considered an insignificant genre, and it was he who elevated it to the level of artistic perfection. Moreover, he combined the seemingly incompatible song and chamber symphonic music, which gave rise to a new direction of lyrical-romantic symphony. Vocal and song lyrics are a world of simple and deep, subtle and even intimate human experiences, expressed not in words, but in sound. Franz Schubert lived a very short life, only 31 years old. The fate of the composer's works is no less tragic than his life. After death Schubert many unpublished manuscripts remained, stored in bookcases and drawers of relatives and friends. Even those closest to him did not know everything he wrote, and throughout for long years he was recognized mainly only as the king of song. Some of the composer's works were published only half a century after his death. One of the most beloved and famous works Franz Schubert - "Evening Serenade":


Robert Schumann

A German composer with an equally tragic fate Robert Schumann- one of best composers romantic era. He created music of amazing beauty. To get an idea about German romanticism XIX century, just listen "Carnival" Robert Schumann. He was able to break free from the musical traditions of the classical era, creating his own interpretation of the romantic style. Robert Schumann was gifted with many talents, and even for a long time he could not decide between music, poetry, journalism and philology (he was a polyglot and translated fluently from English, French and Italian). He was also an amazing pianist. And yet the main calling and passion Schumann there was music. His poetic and deeply psychological music largely reflects the duality of the composer’s nature, a rush of passion and escape into the world of dreams, awareness of vulgar reality and the desire for the ideal. One of the masterpieces Robert Schumann, which everyone simply must hear:


Frederic Chopin

Frederic Chopin is perhaps the most famous Pole in the world of music. Neither before nor after the composer was a musical genius of this level born in Poland. The Poles are incredibly proud of their great compatriot, and in their creativity Chopin more than once he glorifies his homeland, admires the beauty of the landscapes, laments the tragic past, dreams of a great future. Frederic Chopin- one of the few composers who wrote music exclusively for piano. His creative heritage includes neither operas nor symphonies, but piano pieces are presented in all their diversity. Works Chopin- the basis of the repertoire of many famous pianists. Frederic Chopin is a Polish composer who is also known as a talented pianist. He lived only 39 years, but managed to create many masterpieces: ballads, preludes, waltzes, mazurkas, nocturnes, polonaises, etudes, sonatas and much, much more. One of them - "Ballad No. 1, G minor".