Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1894

Death

:

1962

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Concerto

 

Erik Leidzen was a renowned composer, arranger, and conductor of classical music. He was born on September 15, 1894, in Stockholm, Sweden, to a family of musicians. His father, Emil Leidzen, was a trombonist and conductor, and his mother, Anna Leidzen, was a pianist. Erik grew up in a musical environment and started playing the cornet at a young age. In 1906, Erik's family moved to the United States, settling in New York City. Erik continued his musical education, studying at the New York Military Academy and the New York College of Music. He also played in various bands and orchestras, including the Goldman Band and the New York Philharmonic. In 1917, Erik joined the Salvation Army, where he served as a musician and bandmaster for over 40 years. He composed and arranged numerous pieces for the Salvation Army's brass bands, including marches, hymns, and concert works. Some of his most famous compositions for the Salvation Army include "The Great Crusade," "The Call to Service," and "The New Frontier." Erik was also a prolific composer of classical music, writing works for orchestra, choir, and chamber ensembles. His compositions were influenced by his Salvation Army background, incorporating elements of hymnody and brass band music into his works. Some of his most notable classical compositions include "Symphony No. 1," "Concerto for Brass Band and Orchestra," and "The Song of the Seashore." In addition to his work as a composer, Erik was also a respected conductor. He conducted numerous orchestras and bands, including the New York Philharmonic, the Goldman Band, and the Salvation Army's International Staff Band. He was known for his precise and energetic conducting style, and his ability to bring out the best in his musicians. Throughout his career, Erik received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music. He was inducted into the American Bandmasters Association in 1939, and was awarded the Order of the Founder, the highest honor given by the Salvation Army, in 1960. He also received honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of Bridgeport and the University of the Pacific. Erik Leidzen passed away on April 13, 1962, at the age of 67. His legacy as a composer, arranger, and conductor continues to inspire musicians around the world. His works are still performed by orchestras and bands today, and his contributions to the Salvation Army's music program are still celebrated by Salvationists worldwide.

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