Henri Tomasi

French composer (1901-1971), pianist, conductor and prolific composer best known for ballet scores.

"1941-42 – The Symphonie en ut (C major), conducted by Charles Munch, heralds a new period, both in his way of thinking and his musical compositions which reflect a new breadth. “The battle between the instinct of passion and mystical yearnings – the sufferings of humanity – the final affirmation of enduring joy.” He begins spending time at the Monastère de la Sainte-Baume (which is Dominican at the time) in order to devote all his energy to creating the opera that would become his chef-d’oeuvre, Don Juan de Mañara, based on the fine text by poet O.V. de L. Milosz." -- http://www.henri-tomasi.asso.fr/en/bio.php

His trumpet concerto was one of the most popular compositions -- Le Concerto pour Trompette -- recorded by some of the finest musicians of the time: L. Vaillant, M. André, P. Thibaud, W. Marsalis, E. Aubier, etc.

Tomasi's indignation with injustice informs most of his compositions, many of which illustrated text. He died peacefully in Paris. Tomasi said: "Although I haven't shirked from using the most modern forms of expression, I've always been a melodist at heart. I can't stand systems and sectarianism. I write for the public at large. Music that doesn't come from the heart isn't music."… (más)