Vasilije Mokranjac

Vasilije Mokranjac was a renowned Serbian composer and professor of composition at the Faculty of Music in Belgrade. Born on September 11, 1923, in Belgrade, he came from a prominent musical family and was particularly noted for his contributions to instrumental music. Mokranjac's style evolved over three distinct periods, initially embracing neo-romanticism with elements of folklore, before moving towards neo-expressionism and neo-impressionism in his later works. He was celebrated for his symphonies, piano music, and film scores, winning prestigious awards such as the October Prize and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Mokranjac was also a respected educator, known for his open-minded approach to teaching composition, and he mentored several notable Serbian composers.

Mokranjac's piano works are highly regarded, often performed by distinguished pianists and taught in music schools across Serbia. His compositions frequently combine traditional forms with modern elements, such as jazz and blues influences. In his final creative period, Mokranjac's works became more lyrical and contemplative, incorporating elements of neo-impressionism and Messiaen's modes. Despite his untimely death in 1984, Mokranjac left a lasting legacy in Serbian music, with his works continuing to be celebrated for their depth and innovation. His recent releases, such as *Mokranjac: Piano Works* and *Mokranjac: Complete Piano Works*, highlight his enduring contribution to the world of classical music.

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