Jean Berger

Full biography Jean Berger

Jean Berger was a German-born composer, pianist, and music educator who lived from 1909 to 2002. He is known for his works in choral music and art songs, and was active as a conductor and musicologist as well.

Berger was born in Hamm, Germany, and began taking piano and organ lessons at a young age. He eventually studied composition under Paul Hindemith at the Hochschule für Musik in Berlin. Berger moved to France in the 1930s, where he became associated with the Parisian group of composers known as Les Six. During World War II, he fled France and eventually settled in the United States, where he remained for the rest of his life and became a U.S. citizen in 1943.

As a composer, Berger's works often combined elements of his German heritage with his love of French music. He frequently set texts by poets such as Langston Hughes and Emily Dickinson to music, and his works for choir were particularly well-regarded. He also composed works for solo piano, including sonatas and other pieces.

In addition to his work as a composer, Berger was active as a conductor and music educator. He taught at several institutions in the United States, including various summer music festivals, and was a proponent of music education for young people. He was also known for his work in the field of musicology, particularly in the study of medieval music.

Overall, Jean Berger was a prolific and respected composer and educator who made significant contributions to the field of music. His works continue to be performed and celebrated today.