Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

France

Birth

:

April 18, 1930 in Angers, France

Death

:

January 26, 2019 in Paris, France

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Jean Guillou was a French composer, organist, and pianist who was born on April 18, 1930, in Angers, France. He was a child prodigy who began playing the piano at the age of four and the organ at the age of six. He studied at the Paris Conservatory, where he won first prize in piano and harmony. He also studied with Marcel Dupré, who was one of the most famous organists of the 20th century. Guillou began his career as a concert pianist, but he soon turned his attention to the organ. He became the organist at the Church of Saint-Eustache in Paris in 1963, a position he held for over 40 years. He was also a professor of organ at the Paris Conservatory from 1969 to 1976. Guillou was known for his virtuosic performances and his innovative approach to the organ. He was one of the first organists to use electronic effects, such as distortion and delay, in his performances. He also composed many works for the organ, including his famous "Sonata for Organ," which is considered one of the most important works for the instrument in the 20th century. Guillou was a prolific composer, and his works include pieces for organ, piano, orchestra, and chamber ensembles. He was also a conductor, and he conducted many orchestras throughout Europe. One of Guillou's most famous performances was his 1971 recital at the Royal Festival Hall in London. The concert was a huge success, and it established Guillou as one of the most important organists of his time. He also performed at many other prestigious venues throughout his career, including Carnegie Hall in New York and the Berlin Philharmonic. Guillou received many awards and honors throughout his career. In 1978, he was awarded the Grand Prix du Disque for his recording of Bach's "Art of Fugue." He was also awarded the Legion of Honor, which is the highest honor in France, in 2006. Guillou continued to perform and compose until his death on January 26, 2019, at the age of 88. He left behind a legacy as one of the most important organists and composers of the 20th century. His innovative approach to the organ and his virtuosic performances inspired many musicians and will continue to influence the world of classical music for generations to come.

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