Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Canada

Birth

:

September 6, 1932 in Arvida, Quebec

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Gilles Tremblay was a Canadian composer who was born on September 27, 1932, in Arvida, Quebec. He was the son of a music teacher and grew up in a musical family. Tremblay began his musical studies at a young age, learning to play the piano and the violin. He later studied composition with Claude Champagne at the Conservatoire de musique du Québec à Montréal. Tremblay's early works were influenced by the French composer Olivier Messiaen, who he met while studying in Paris in the 1950s. Tremblay's music was also influenced by the music of the indigenous people of Quebec, as well as by the sounds of nature. He was particularly interested in the sounds of water, wind, and birds, and incorporated these sounds into his compositions. One of Tremblay's most famous works is his orchestral piece "Les Vêpres de la Vierge," which was commissioned by the Montreal Symphony Orchestra in 1963. The piece is based on the Catholic liturgy of the Virgin Mary and features a choir singing in Latin. The work is known for its use of unconventional instruments, such as the water gong and the wind machine, which create a unique and ethereal sound. Another notable work by Tremblay is his "Champs I," which was composed in 1968. The piece is scored for 12 solo strings and is based on the sounds of the Quebec countryside. The work is known for its use of extended techniques, such as glissandi and harmonics, which create a haunting and otherworldly sound. Tremblay's music was also influenced by his interest in Zen Buddhism, which he began studying in the 1970s. His piece "Solstices" was inspired by the Zen concept of the four seasons and features a solo percussionist playing a variety of instruments, including the marimba, vibraphone, and gongs. In addition to his work as a composer, Tremblay was also a teacher and mentor to many young composers. He taught at the Conservatoire de musique du Québec à Montréal and the Université de Montréal, and was known for his dedication to his students. Tremblay received many awards and honors throughout his career, including the Prix Denise-Pelletier, the Prix Serge-Garant, and the Order of Canada. He passed away on November 27, 2017, at the age of 85. In conclusion, Gilles Tremblay was a Canadian composer who was known for his unique and innovative approach to music. His works were influenced by a variety of sources, including the music of indigenous people, the sounds of nature, and Zen Buddhism. Tremblay's music was characterized by its use of unconventional instruments and extended techniques, which created a haunting and otherworldly sound. He was also a dedicated teacher and mentor to many young composers, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

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