Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

Netherlands

Birth

:

January 22, 1943 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

 

Maarten Altena is a Dutch composer and bassist who has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary classical music. Born on January 22, 1943, in Amsterdam, Altena grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist. From a young age, Altena showed a keen interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. Altena's musical education began at the Amsterdam Conservatory, where he studied double bass and composition. He later continued his studies at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, where he studied with the renowned composer Louis Andriessen. During this time, Altena also played bass in various jazz and rock bands, which helped to shape his unique musical style. In the early 1970s, Altena became a member of the Instant Composers Pool (ICP), a collective of Dutch improvisers and composers. This group was known for their experimental approach to music, and Altena's involvement with the ICP helped to shape his compositional style. He began to incorporate elements of improvisation and experimentation into his classical compositions, creating a sound that was both innovative and challenging. One of Altena's most significant works is his opera, "Kleines Requiem für Heinrich der IV." This piece was commissioned by the Holland Festival in 1984 and was based on the life of the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV. The opera features a libretto by the Dutch poet and playwright Gerrit Komrij and is scored for a small ensemble of instruments, including strings, winds, and percussion. The piece is notable for its use of extended techniques, such as microtonal tuning and unconventional playing techniques, which create a haunting and otherworldly sound. Another notable work by Altena is his "String Quartet No. 2," which was composed in 1990. This piece is scored for two violins, viola, and cello and is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and intricate counterpoint. The quartet is divided into four movements, each of which explores a different aspect of Altena's unique musical language. In addition to his work as a composer, Altena is also an accomplished bassist. He has performed with a wide range of ensembles, including the ICP Orchestra, the Willem Breuker Kollektief, and the Nederlands Blazers Ensemble. His bass playing is characterized by its virtuosity and versatility, and he is known for his ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles and genres. Throughout his career, Altena has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to contemporary classical music. In 1999, he was awarded the Johan Wagenaar Prize, which is given to Dutch composers for outstanding achievements in the field of music. He has also been awarded the Matthijs Vermeulen Prize, the most prestigious award for Dutch composers, twice, in 1984 and 2000. In conclusion, Maarten Altena is a highly influential composer and bassist who has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary classical music. His unique musical language, which blends elements of improvisation, experimentation, and classical composition, has helped to shape the sound of contemporary classical music in the Netherlands and beyond. His works, such as "Kleines Requiem für Heinrich der IV" and "String Quartet No. 2," are characterized by their complexity, virtuosity, and innovation, and continue to be performed and celebrated by musicians and audiences around the world.

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