Hector Berlioz (1803-1869)
Hector Berlioz (1803-1869) was a French composer and conductor known for his innovative and expressive music. He is regarded as one of the most significant figures in 19th-century Romantic music. Berlioz's compositions broke traditional boundaries and expanded the possibilities of orchestration, form, and expression. Here are some key aspects of Berlioz's life and career: Early Life and Education: Hector Berlioz was born on December 11, 1803, in La Côte-Saint-André, France. His father wanted him to pursue a medical career, but Berlioz had a deep passion for music. He taught himself to play various instruments and began composing at a young age. Despite his father's disapproval, Berlioz eventually entered the Paris Conservatoire in 1826 to study composition and harmony. Major Works: Berlioz composed in various genres, including orchestral works, operas, choral music, and song cycles. Some of his most renowned compositions include: "Symphonie fantastique" (1830): T...