Role

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Composer

Period

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Contemporary

Genre

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Chamber

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Vocal

 

Frederic Goossen was a classical music composer born on December 22, 1927, in New York City. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a violinist and his mother a pianist. Goossen began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. He attended the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where he studied composition with Vincent Persichetti and piano with Rosalyn Tureck. After graduating from Juilliard, Goossen began his career as a composer, writing music for various ensembles and orchestras. His early works were influenced by the neoclassical style of composers such as Stravinsky and Hindemith. In 1953, he won the Prix de Rome, a prestigious award for young composers, which allowed him to study in Rome for two years. During his time in Rome, Goossen was exposed to the music of Italian composers such as Respighi and Casella, which had a significant impact on his own compositions. He also studied with the renowned composer Luigi Dallapiccola, who encouraged him to explore new techniques and styles in his music. After returning to the United States, Goossen continued to compose and teach at various universities, including the University of Michigan and the University of Southern California. He was known for his innovative use of electronic music and his incorporation of non-Western musical traditions into his compositions. One of Goossen's most famous works is his Symphony No. 1, which was premiered by the New York Philharmonic in 1960. The symphony is a complex and challenging work, featuring intricate rhythms and harmonies. It was well-received by critics and established Goossen as a major figure in contemporary classical music. Another notable work by Goossen is his Concerto for Piano and Orchestra, which was premiered by the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1967. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the soloist, featuring complex and challenging piano passages. It has since become a staple of the piano concerto repertoire. In addition to his orchestral works, Goossen also wrote numerous chamber music pieces, including string quartets, sonatas, and trios. His chamber music is characterized by its intricate counterpoint and use of unconventional harmonies. Throughout his career, Goossen was recognized for his contributions to contemporary classical music. He received numerous awards and honors, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and a commission from the Koussevitzky Music Foundation. He was also a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Frederic Goossen passed away on December 13, 2015, at the age of 87. His legacy as a composer and innovator in contemporary classical music continues to inspire and influence musicians today.

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