Hugo Kauder

Full biography Hugo Kauder

Hugo Kauder (1888-1972) was a Czech composer of the mid-twentieth century, who is known for defying the atonal trend of his generation with his unique harmonic style. Born in Tobitschau, Moravia (now Tovačov, the Czech Republic), Kauder was forced to leave his beloved Vienna to continue his career. He was able to resume teaching and writing in New York , where he continued to develop his compositional style.

Kauder's compositions were characterized by their use of tonality, contrapuntal textures, and melodic lyricism, drawing influence from both the Baroque and Romantic periods. He wrote in a variety of genres, including string quartets, symphonies, operas, and choral music. Kauder's music has been described as "unconventional but approachable," featuring "generous melodies, folk songs, dances, and fugal writing."

In addition to his career as a composer, Kauder was also an educator, writer, and conductor. He collaborated with German poet, philosopher, and writer Rudolf Pannwitz on his opera Merlin in the 1960s. In 1945 , the Gordon String Quartet championed Kauder's music, which led to the formation of the Hugo Kauder Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Kauder's legacy.

Today, Kauder's works continue to be performed and celebrated by music enthusiasts around the world. His unique approach to tonality and harmonic language has earned him a place among the notable composers of the 20th century.