Alexei Haieff

Full biography Alexei Haieff

Alexei Haieff was an American composer, born in Russia in 1914, who was known for his contributions to contemporary classical music. He moved to the United States as a child and began his musical studies at the age of 10. He studied composition at the Juilliard School in New York City and went on to enjoy a successful career as a composer and teacher.

Haieff's compositions were known for their originality and modernist style. His work drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including jazz, Russian folk music, and the works of fellow composers such as Stravinsky and the dodecaphonists. Haieff's Third Symphony was particularly noteworthy, earning praise from music critic Harold C. Schonberg in a 1961 review in The New York Times.

In addition to his compositional work, Haieff was also a respected teacher and mentor to many young composers. He taught at the Juilliard School and the Mannes College of Music, among other institutions, and his students included future luminaries such as Philip Glass and Steve Reich.

Haieff's career was cut short when he passed away in 1994 at the age of 79. However, his legacy as a pioneering figure in modern classical music lives on, and his contributions continue to influence and inspire new generations of composers and performers.