Henri Busser

Full biography Henri Busser

Henri Busser (1872-1973) was a French classical composer, organist, and conductor. He was born in Toulouse, France but later entered the Paris Conservatoire in 1889. There, he studied under renowned composers such as Leon Boellmann, Charles-Marie Widor, and Jules Massenet. He won the Prix de Rome in 1893, which further established his reputation as a composer.

Busser was primarily known in France as a composer and wrote a wide range of works, including operas, chamber music, and compositions for orchestra and solo instruments. He is particularly noted for his flute compositions, which are often performed by flautists today. Notably, he was known for his ability to write for instruments that he did not play, such as the flute, with skill and precision.

Busser was also an accomplished conductor and organist. He conducted at the Paris Opera and was the organist at several prominent churches in Paris. Additionally, he served as the director of the Conservatoire de Musique de Nice from 1934 to 1941.

Busser's work was well-regarded during his lifetime, and he was awarded the Legion of Honor by the French government. He lived to the age of 101 and remained active in the music world throughout his long life. Today, his music continues to be performed and enjoyed by musicians and audiences alike.