Boris Asafyev

Full biography Boris Asafyev

Boris Vladimirovich Asafyev (1884-1949) was a Russian and Soviet composer, musicologist, writer, and critic, and one of the founders of Soviet musicology. He was born on July 29, 1884, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and died on January 27, 1949, in Moscow, Russia.

As a composer, Asafyev wrote extensively for the ballet, opera, and orchestra, and his work often incorporated elements of Russian folk music and traditional modes and harmonies. He also wrote chamber music, songs, and film scores.

Besides being a composer, Asafyev was an influential musicologist and writer on music, and his contributions to Soviet musicology were significant. He wrote extensively on the theory and history of music, including topics such as the relationship between music and dance, the aesthetics of music, and the importance of folk music in the formation of Russian classical music.

Asafyev was also a founding member of the Soviet Composers' Union and was made its chairman in 1948. He was a well-known and respected figure in the Soviet musical establishment during his lifetime.

Today, Asafyev is known for his scholarly works on music theory and history, as well as his compositions, which still receive occasional performances. Some of his most famous works include his ballets - Flames of Paris, The Fountain of Bakhchisarai, and The Twelve - and his film scores, such as his score for the film The Return of Vasil Bortnikov.

In conclusion, Boris Asafyev was a multifaceted figure in the world of Russian and Soviet music, notable for his contributions as a composer, musicologist, writer, and critic. His works continue to be appreciated for their innovative and unique approach to music.