Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Albert Michael Locher, better known by his stage name, Alberic Magnard, was a French composer and pianist born on June 9, 1865, in Paris, France. He was the son of the famous writer and politician, Francis Magnard, and his wife, Marie-Thérèse Magnard. Alberic Magnard was the youngest of their three children. Alberic Magnard showed an early interest in music and began studying the piano at a young age. He was also interested in literature and philosophy, and he pursued these interests alongside his musical studies. He attended the École des Hautes Études Sociales in Paris, where he studied philosophy and literature. In 1884, Alberic Magnard began studying composition with Vincent d'Indy, a prominent French composer and teacher. He also studied piano with Louis Diémer and harmony with Charles Bordes. Alberic Magnard's early compositions were influenced by the music of Richard Wagner and the French composer César Franck. In 1893, Alberic Magnard married Julie Creton, and they had two children together. He continued to compose and perform throughout his marriage, and his music began to gain recognition in France and abroad. One of Alberic Magnard's most significant works is his Symphony No. 4, which he completed in 1913. The symphony is a powerful and emotional work that reflects Alberic Magnard's deep love of nature and his concern for the state of the world. The symphony was premiered in Paris in 1914, just before the outbreak of World War I. During the war, Alberic Magnard and his family lived in their country home in Baron, near the front lines. In 1914, German soldiers occupied the town, and Alberic Magnard refused to leave his home. He was shot and killed by the soldiers on September 3, 1914, while defending his property. Alberic Magnard's death was a great loss to the world of music. His music was deeply emotional and expressive, and it reflected his concern for the world around him. His Symphony No. 4 is considered one of the great works of the early 20th century, and his other compositions, including his operas and chamber music, are also highly regarded. In recognition of his contributions to music, Alberic Magnard was posthumously awarded the Legion of Honor, France's highest civilian honor. His music continues to be performed and recorded today, and he is remembered as one of the great composers of his time.

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