Albéric Magnard

Albéric Magnard, a French composer born in 1865, was a contemporary of musical giants like Sibelius, Nielsen, and Glazunov. Hailing from a wealthy family, Magnard chose the path of music over privilege, studying under Vincent d'Indy and becoming part of the Franck lineage. His compositions, though not widely recognized during his lifetime, are now gaining appreciation for their depth and mastery. Magnard's output includes symphonies and orchestral works like the evocative "Hymne à Vénus." Tragically, he died at the age of 49 while defending his home at the outbreak of World War I. His music, a blend of French romanticism and personal expression, offers a rich and often overlooked treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts.