Pedro Humberto Allende

Full biography Pedro Humberto Allende

Pedro Humberto Allende was a Chilean composer and orchestrator born in Valparaiso on 10th May 1885. He was known for his contributions to the Chilean music scene, and his works were often inspired by the Chilean culture and its people.

Allende studied music in Paris under renowned music composers Vincent d'Indy and Charles-Marie Widor. After returning to Chile, he started creating his own music which was influenced by the folk music of his native country. He composed works for different genres, including opera, theater, symphonies, and chamber music.

One of Allende's most significant contributions to Chilean music was his composition of the national anthem. In 1941, Allende and his wife wrote the music and lyrics of the anthem, which was adopted by the Chilean government as the official national anthem of Chile.

In addition to composing music, Allende was a passionate music educator and taught music theory, composition, and arrangement at the Music School of the Catholic University of Chile. He also founded and served as the conductor of the Chilean National Orchestra, and helped establish the Chilean Society of Authors and Composers.

Allende's legacy has continued long after his death in Santiago in 1959. His music remains celebrated in Chile and has been performed by various ensembles, including the Chilean Symphonic Orchestra. He is recognized as one of Chile's most prominent composers, and his contributions to the nation's music scene have been invaluable.