Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

November 27, 1867

Death

:

May 30, 1972

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Margaret Ruthven Lang was an American composer born on November 27, 1867, in Boston, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Benjamin Johnson Lang, a prominent musician and conductor, and his wife, Frances Morse Lang. Margaret grew up in a musical household and began composing at a young age. She received her first piano lessons from her father and later studied composition with George Whitefield Chadwick. Margaret's musical talent was evident from an early age, and she made her public debut as a pianist at the age of nine. She continued to perform as a pianist throughout her life, but her true passion was composition. Margaret's first published work, a song titled "My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose," was published when she was just 15 years old. She went on to compose over 200 works, including songs, choral music, chamber music, and orchestral works. Margaret's music was influenced by the Romantic composers of the 19th century, particularly Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms. Her compositions were characterized by their lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and expressive use of chromaticism. Margaret was also known for her use of unusual forms and structures, such as the use of a fugue in her Piano Sonata in G minor. One of Margaret's most significant works was her opera, "The Wreckers," which premiered in 1906. The opera was based on a play by Henry Brewster, and Margaret wrote both the music and the libretto. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike and was performed by several opera companies throughout the United States. Margaret's other notable works include her "Suite in D major" for orchestra, which was premiered by the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1893, and her "Three Songs for Voice and Orchestra," which were premiered by the New York Philharmonic in 1901. Margaret also wrote several works for chamber ensembles, including her "String Quartet in E minor" and her "Piano Trio in G minor." Despite her success as a composer, Margaret faced many challenges as a woman in the male-dominated field of classical music. She was often dismissed by critics and faced discrimination from publishers who were reluctant to publish the works of a female composer. Margaret also struggled to balance her career as a composer with her responsibilities as a wife and mother. Despite these challenges, Margaret continued to compose throughout her life and remained an active member of the Boston musical community. She was a founding member of the Society of American Women Composers and served as its president from 1918 to 1920. Margaret also taught composition at the New England Conservatory of Music and was a mentor to many young composers. Margaret Ruthven Lang died on April 27, 1972, at the age of 104. She left behind a legacy of beautiful and innovative music that continues to be performed and appreciated today. Margaret's contributions to the world of classical music have helped to pave the way for future generations of female composers and have inspired countless musicians and music lovers around the world.

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