Born:
December 10, 1822
Birthplace:
Liège, Belgium
Died:
November 8, 1890 in Paris, France
Also Known As:
His full name was César Auguste Jean Guillaume Hubert Franck; he was an organist at the Church of Saint-Jean-Saint-François (1851) and at Sainte-Clotilde (1858). He was also a composer and became organ professor at the Paris Conservatory. His teachings inspired a group of pupils which included composer Vincent d’Indy. Franck was especially known for his improvisations.
Type of Compositions:
His compositions include sacred works, symphonic poems, chamber and keyboard works.
Influence:
Franck's father wanted him to become a virtuoso pianist. At 8 years old, Franck entered the Liège Conservatory where he studied piano. In 1837 he furthered his studies at the Paris Conservatory where he won a Grand Prix d’Honneur for his composition. He briefly became a student of Anton Reicha who taught Hector Berlioz and Franz LIszt. Afterward, he performed in concerts where he showcased his own compositions. He later began composing for and playing the organ by the 1840s.
Notable Works:
His works include: "Ruth" (a cantata), "Les Béatitudes" (an oratorio), "Piano Quintet in F Minor," "Variations symphoniques," "Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano," "Symphony in D Minor," "String Quartet in D Major," "Le chausseur maudit" and "Psyché."
Interesting Facts:
He had a younger brother named Joseph who was a violinist. Franck was married to Félicité Saillot, an actress, in 1848.