1992
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Olivier Eugène Prosper Charles Messiaen (UK: / ˈ m ɛ s i æ̃ /, US: / m ɛ ˈ s j æ̃, m eɪ ˈ s j æ̃, m ɛ ˈ s j ɒ̃ /; French: [ɔlivje øʒɛn pʁɔspɛʁ ʃaʁl mɛsjɑ̃]; 10 December 1908 – 27 April 1992) was a French composer, organist, and ornithologist.
Olivier Messiaen was an influential French composer, organist, and teacher noted for his use of mystical and religious themes. As a composer, he developed a highly personal style noted for its rhythmic complexity, rich tonal colour, and unique harmonic language.
Learn about the life and works of Olivier Messiaen, a composer who created his own musical language inspired by birdsong, rhythm, colour and faith. Discover his synaesthesia, his organ mastery, his influences and his legacy.
Olivier Eugène Prosper Charles Messiaen est né à Avignon, le 10 décembre 1908 3, premier enfant de Pierre Messiaen (1883-1957), professeur d'anglais et intellectuel catholique, et de la poétesse Cécile Sauvage (1883-1927).
Learn about the life, works and legacy of Olivier Messiaen, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. Explore his biography, music, recordings, publications, events and more on his official website.
Five essential works by Messiaen - Classical Music
The compositional style of French composer Olivier Messiaen can only be described as staggeringly diverse. Drawing on influences from around the human world (including Western serialism and traditional Japanese and Indonesian music) and from nature (particularly birdsong), he forged a unique and instantly recognisable style that expressed his ...
