Victor Dourlen

Full biography Victor Dourlen

Victor Charles Paul Dourlen was a French composer and music teacher who lived from November 3 , 1780, to January 8, 1864. He is known for his contributions to music education in France, particularly in the area of vocal polyphony.

Dourlen studied at the Paris Conservatoire under Anton Reicha and Louis Pradher, and later became a professor of harmony and counterpoint at the same institution. He wrote several influential textbooks on music theory, including a treatise on counterpoint, which was widely used in music schools throughout France.

Dourlen's compositional output includes several operas, vocal works, and choral music, including a Mass and a Requiem. He also wrote chamber music, piano music, and works for orchestra. Despite his early success in composing operas, he later focused more on teaching and writing music textbooks.

Dourlen was highly respected as a teacher, and his students included notable composers such as Henri Herz and Ambroise Thomas. His legacy in music education in France was significant, as he helped establish a standard curriculum for music instruction and contributed to the development of the French school of composition.

Victor Dourlen died at the age of 83 in 1864, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence in music education and composition.