Olivier Messiaen (1908–1992) was a French composer, organist, and ornithologist whose work is acclaimed for its deeply spiritual nature and innovative use of musical language. Born in Avignon, Messiaen was a child prodigy who entered the Paris Conservatoire at the age of 11. He was profoundly influenced by his Catholic faith, a boundless passion for nature—especially birdsong which he extensively transcribed and incorporated into his compositions—and a fascination with rhythm, which led him to explore ancient Greek and Hindu rhythms.

Throughout his career, Messiaen developed a unique musical style characterized by complex rhythms (which he called "rhythmic characters"), rich harmonies, and vivid colors; elements that he likened to stained glass windows. Among his most notable works are "Quatuor pour la fin du temps" (Quartet for the End of Time), composed during his captivity as a prisoner of war during World War II; the epic, nature-inspired "Des canyons aux étoiles..." (From the Canyons to the Stars...); and the devotional twenty-movement piano cycle "Vingt Regards Sur L'enfant-Jésus" (Twenty Contemplations on the Infant Jesus). His works were unconventional for their time, and as a highly respected teacher, Messiaen influenced many 20th-century composers with his radical approaches to melody, rhythm, and color. His compositions remain a significant contribution to contemporary classical music and continue to be performed and celebrated around the world.

Genres

Avant-garde

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Early Modern Classical

Laboratorio

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Steve Reich

Latest Release

Thomas Adès: Court Studies from "The Tempest" - Messiaen: Quatuor pour la fin du temps

Olivier Messiaen

Album - 9 Tracks - Released October 25, 2024