Jean Balissat

Full biography Jean Balissat

Jean Balissat (1936-2010) was a Swiss composer, conductor, and pedagogue known for his contributions to contemporary classical music. He studied composition at the Lausanne Conservatory with Willy Burkhard and conducting with Igor Markevitch. In addition, Balissat also studied orchestration with famous composers such as Arthur Honegger and Darius Milhaud.

Balissat's compositions are known for their experimental and innovative approach, combining elements of traditional classical music with elements of contemporary music. He incorporated a wide array of musical instruments and sounds in his works, ranging from brass and percussion to electronic sounds. His music has been performed in numerous international concerts and festivals, earning him a reputation as one of the most noteworthy contemporary classical composers.

Balissat was also an accomplished pedagogue and conductor. He taught at the Geneva Conservatory, where he developed a new curriculum for contemporary music composition and orchestration. Among his students were several well-known composers, including Michael Jarrell and Caroline Charrière.

Some of Balissat's well-known compositions include "Kaleidoscope" for trumpet and percussion, "Requiem" for chamber orchestra, and "Spirales" for orchestra. His contribution to contemporary classical music in Switzerland and beyond is significant and continues to influence modern composers today.