Oliver Knussen

Full biography Oliver Knussen

Oliver Knussen (1952-2018) was a highly influential British composer and conductor. He was known for his innovative and expressive compositions, which included opera, ballet, orchestral and chamber music, and vocal works.

Knussen began his career as a composer at the age of six, when he wrote his first symphony. By the time he was a teenager, he had already become a prolific composer. He later studied at the University of London, with his mentor being the composer Gunther Schuller.

Knussen's breakthrough came with his composition "Where the Wild Things Are," an opera based on the classic children's book by Maurice Sendak. The work premiered in 1984 and was widely acclaimed for its imaginative and playful score.

In addition to his compositions, Knussen was also known as a gifted conductor, leading major orchestras such as the London Sinfonietta and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. He was also highly regarded as a teacher, serving as a professor of composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London.

Throughout his career, Knussen received numerous awards and honors, including a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal. He continued to compose and conduct until his passing in 2018.

Knussen's legacy as a composer and conductor continues to influence the world of classical music today. His innovative approach to music, as well as his commitment to exploring new musical territory, have cemented his place as one of the most important figures in contemporary classical music.