Alexander Glazunov

Alexander Glazunov was a popular Russian music composer who gained name and fame during the late romantic period. His music is quite distinct and unique. Mainly Russian in style, Alexander Glazunov's musical compositions are also influenced by west European music.

Alexander Glazunov was a popular Russian music composer who gained name and fame during the late romantic period. His music is quite distinct and unique. Mainly Russian in style, Alexander Glazunov's musical compositions are also influenced by west European music.

Alexander Glazunov as a Child

In the year 1865, a bookseller in Saint Petersburg was blessed with a baby boy who became famous as a music composer and a teacher when he grew up. This boy was known as Alexander Glazunov. Alexander was greatly interested in music since his childhood. He was greatly influenced by his mother who could play the piano quite well.

Mily Balakirev, a popular Russian musician and founder of nationalist school in Russia, recognized his talent and sent him to Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov to gain higher knowledge in music. Alexander Glazunov composed his first symphony at the age of 16 and received immense appreciation. This was followed by a number of his fine compositions like Overture on Greek Folk Themes, Stenka Razin and String Quartet in F Major.

Alexander Glazunov as a Teacher

In the year 1899, Alexander Glazunov moved on to the teaching profession. He was appointed a professor in

Saint Petersburg Conservatory for teaching instrumentation. In 1909, he was made the director of this conservatory. He worked here till 1922. In Saint Petersburg, one of his popular pupils was Dmitry Shostakovich. From 1929, he settled in Paris, but he also set out for a tour to US, Europe and Vienna in between.

Alexander Glazunov's Versatility

Alexander Glazunov's compositions have different styles like symphonies, tone poems, string quartet, concerti, ballet music and chamber music. Alexander Glazunov could not only play the piano but also other instruments like cello, violin and woodwinds. During his last years of his life, he was greatly interested in jazz. Alexander died in Paris on 21st March 1936.