From Berlioz to Shostakovich, let's learn more about these composers who wrote beautfiul symphonies and have influenced countless composers through the years.
1. Louis-Hector Berlioz
Unlike his contemporaries, Berlioz' wasn't as easily accepted by the public. It might be said that his manner of instrumentation and orchestration was too advanced for that era. He wrote operas, symphonies, choral music, overtures, songs and cantatas.Selected Symphony:
2. Georges Bizet
Bizet was a French composer who influenced the verismo school of opera. He wrote operas, orchestral works, incidental music, compositions for piano and songs.Selected Symphony:
3. Benjamin Britten
Benjamin Britten was a prolific English composer and musician of the 20th century who was instrumental in establishing a music festival in England. Among his major works are "War Requiem," "Peter Grimes" and "Death in Venice."Selected Symphony:
4. Antonin Dvorak
He was a conductor, teacher and composer whose works reflected different influences, from American folk tunes to Brahms' works. His most famous work is the Ninth Symphony from the "New World Symphony."Selected Symphonies:
5. Charles Ives
Innovative American composer of the 20th century and the first known composer of polytonal pieces. He wrote symphonies, sonatas, chamber music, vocal and piano pieces.Selected Symphonies:
6. Gustav Mahler
Mahler is known for his opera, songs, cantatas and symphonies which he wrote in several keys. Some of his works require a huge orchestra, for example, the "Eighth Symphony in E flat" also called the Symphony of A Thousand.Selected Symphonies:
7. Sergey Prokofiev
"Peter and the Wolf" was written by Sergey Prokofiev in 1936 and was meant for a children's theater in Moscow. Prokofiev wrote the story and music; it is a great way to introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra. In the story, each character is represented by a particular musical instrument.Selected Symphonies:
8. Dmitry Shostakovich
Dmitry Shostakovich was one of the great composers from Russia who many believe was artistically stifled during the reign of Stalin. He wrote concerti, symphonies and chamber music.Selected Symphonies:
