Olivier Greif was a French composer and pianist known for his emotionally intense and deeply spiritual music. Born in 1950 and active until his death in 2000, Greif's work was heavily influenced by his diverse cultural background—his father was a Holocaust survivor—and his personal spiritual journey, which included a deep engagement with Eastern philosophy, especially the teachings of Sri Chinmoy. His compositions often combine romantic lyricism with modernist tension, drawing inspiration from both European classical tradition and non-Western elements.
Greif created a rich body of work, including piano sonatas, chamber music, and vocal pieces. One of his most powerful and frequently performed works is the Sonata de Requiem for cello and piano—a haunting tribute that showcases his gift for merging beauty with emotional gravity. Though not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, Olivier Greif has developed a strong legacy among performers and listeners who appreciate music that is both emotionally raw and philosophically profound.
Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the artists you love!
Get Started