Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

April 6, 1885 in Arcachon, France

Death

:

August 17, 1961 in Waterville, ME

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Carlos Salzedo was a French-American harpist, composer, and conductor who was born on April 6, 1885, in Arcachon, France. He was the son of a Spanish father and a French mother. Salzedo's father was a painter, and his mother was a pianist. Salzedo's parents recognized his musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Salzedo began his musical education at the age of six when he started taking piano lessons. However, he soon switched to the harp, which became his primary instrument. Salzedo studied with Alphonse Hasselmans, a renowned harpist and teacher at the Paris Conservatory. Salzedo was a prodigious student and won several prizes at the Conservatory. In 1909, Salzedo moved to the United States and became the principal harpist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He also taught at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia and the Juilliard School in New York City. Salzedo was a pioneer in the development of the modern harp technique, and he wrote several instructional books on the subject. Salzedo was also a prolific composer, and his works for the harp are considered some of the most important in the harp repertoire. His compositions are characterized by their virtuosity and their use of modern techniques. Salzedo's music is also notable for its use of unusual harmonies and rhythms. One of Salzedo's most famous compositions is his Suite of Eight Dances for Harp, which was composed in 1923. The suite consists of eight short pieces, each with a different dance rhythm. The suite is a showcase for the harp's versatility and virtuosity, and it has become a staple of the harp repertoire. Another notable work by Salzedo is his Ballade for Harp and Orchestra, which was composed in 1936. The piece is a lyrical and expressive work that showcases the harp's ability to create a wide range of moods and emotions. The Ballade has become a popular work for harpists and is often performed in concert. Salzedo was also a conductor, and he founded the Salzedo Harp Ensemble in 1932. The ensemble was made up of harpists and other musicians, and it performed a wide range of music, including Salzedo's own compositions. The ensemble was highly regarded and performed throughout the United States. Salzedo continued to perform, teach, and compose until his death on August 17, 1961, in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire. He was 76 years old. Salzedo's legacy as a harpist, composer, and teacher continues to influence musicians today. His innovative approach to the harp and his contributions to the harp repertoire have made him one of the most important figures in the history of the instrument.

More....