Paul-Henri-Joseph Lebrun

Full biography Paul-Henri-Joseph Lebrun

Paul-Henri-Joseph Lebrun was a Belgian composer and conductor who lived from 11 March 1831 to 4 April 1909. He was the son of Charles-Auguste de Bériot, a renowned Belgian violinist and composer. Lebrun began his musical studies at an early age, and his father was one of his earliest teachers.

Lebrun's musical career began in earnest in the 1850s when he was appointed as the chapel master of the University of Brussels. He later took on several other high-profile positions, including the artistic director of the Royal Conservatory of Ghent. Lebrun was also active as a conductor, leading orchestras in Brussels, Leipzig, and Vienna.

As a composer, Paul-Henri-Joseph Lebrun wrote over 200 works across a variety of genres, including operas, symphonies, and chamber music. Some of his most notable compositions include his opera "Le Diable au Moulin," his three symphonies, and his chamber music works for various instrumental combinations.

Lebrun's music is notable for its lyrical melodies, harmonic complexity, and innovative orchestrations. His works often showcase his skill in blending traditional forms and techniques with new and experimental approaches.

Although Lebrun was well-regarded during his lifetime, his music is not as widely known today as that of some of his contemporaries. Nonetheless, his contributions to the development of Belgian classical music remain an important part of the country's cultural heritage.