Role

:

Composer Conductor

Birth

:

July 22, 1928 in Wuppertal, Germany

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

George Dreyfus is a renowned Australian composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on March 22, 1928, in Wuppertal, Germany, Dreyfus and his family fled Nazi persecution and immigrated to Australia in 1939. His family settled in Melbourne, where Dreyfus began his musical journey. Dreyfus showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later learned to play the clarinet and saxophone, which became his primary instruments. Dreyfus attended the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, where he studied composition under the tutelage of Dorian Le Gallienne. He also studied conducting with Sir Bernard Heinze. Dreyfus began his career as a composer in the 1950s, and his works were performed by various orchestras and ensembles in Australia. In 1964, he was awarded a Harkness Fellowship, which allowed him to study in the United States. He spent two years in the US, studying at the Juilliard School of Music and the Tanglewood Music Center. Dreyfus's music is known for its unique blend of classical and jazz elements. He has composed works for various ensembles, including orchestras, chamber groups, and solo instruments. Some of his most notable works include the opera "The Gilt-Edged Kid," the ballet "The Sentimental Bloke," and the film score for "Mad Dog Morgan." One of Dreyfus's most famous works is his theme for the television series "Rush." The theme, which features a catchy saxophone melody, has become an iconic piece of Australian television history. Dreyfus has also composed music for other television shows, including "The Sullivans" and "Prisoner." Dreyfus has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1976, he was awarded the Order of Australia for his contributions to music. He has also been awarded the Australian Music Centre's Distinguished Services to Australian Music Award and the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Award for Best Original Music Score. In addition to his work as a composer, Dreyfus has also been an advocate for the arts in Australia. He has served on the boards of various arts organizations, including the Australian Music Centre and the Victorian Arts Centre. He has also been a mentor to many young composers and musicians. Dreyfus's music continues to be performed and celebrated in Australia and around the world. His unique style and contributions to the world of classical music have made him a beloved figure in the Australian arts community.

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