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Boghos Gelalian was a prominent classical music composer of Armenian descent. He was born on January 1, 1903, in Istanbul, Turkey. His father was a musician, and he grew up in a musical family. Gelalian showed an early interest in music and began studying the piano at a young age. He later studied composition with the renowned Armenian composer Komitas Vardapet. In 1922, Gelalian moved to Paris to continue his musical studies. He studied composition with Nadia Boulanger and piano with Isidor Philipp. During his time in Paris, Gelalian became acquainted with many prominent musicians and composers, including Igor Stravinsky, Maurice Ravel, and Sergei Prokofiev. Gelalian's early compositions were heavily influenced by Armenian folk music. He incorporated traditional Armenian melodies and rhythms into his works, giving them a unique and distinctive sound. One of his early works, the "Armenian Suite," was premiered in Paris in 1926 and received critical acclaim. In 1928, Gelalian returned to Istanbul and began working as a composer and music teacher. He quickly established himself as one of the leading figures in the Turkish classical music scene. He founded the Istanbul Conservatory of Music in 1936 and served as its director for many years. Gelalian's compositions during this period were heavily influenced by Turkish music. He incorporated elements of Turkish folk music and traditional instruments, such as the oud and the ney, into his works. One of his most famous works from this period is the "Turkish Suite," which was premiered in Istanbul in 1939. During World War II, Gelalian was forced to flee Istanbul due to the political situation in Turkey. He spent several years in Lebanon and Egypt before eventually settling in the United States in 1947. He continued to compose and teach music in the US, becoming a naturalized citizen in 1953. Gelalian's compositions during his time in the US were influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including jazz and contemporary classical music. He continued to incorporate elements of Armenian and Turkish music into his works, but also experimented with new forms and techniques. One of Gelalian's most famous works from this period is the "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra," which was premiered in New York in 1952. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the piano, with complex rhythms and harmonies that reflect Gelalian's eclectic musical influences. Gelalian continued to compose and teach music until his death in 1962. His legacy as a composer and educator continues to be celebrated by musicians and music lovers around the world. His works are still performed and recorded today, and his influence on the development of classical music in Turkey and Armenia is widely recognized.

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