Bohuslav Martinů

Bohuslav Jan Martinů was a distinguished Czech composer, born on December 8, 1890, in Polička, Bohemia. He is renowned for his symphonies, operas, ballet scores, and extensive orchestral, chamber, vocal, and instrumental works. Martinů's early life was marked by his exemplary violin skills, leading him to study at the Prague Conservatory. He later evolved from the Romantic style, embracing modern French stylistic developments and jazz during his time in Paris. His adoption of neoclassicism led to the creation of significant works such as 'Concerto Grosso' and 'Double Concerto for Two String Orchestras, Piano and Timpani'. Martinů emigrated to the U.S. in 1941 due to WWII, where his symphonies were widely performed. He passed away in Switzerland on August 28, 1959.