Igor Stravinsky
Early Life and Education
Igor Fyodorovich Stravinsky was born on June 17, 1882, in Oranienbaum, Russia, now known as Lomonosov. He was the third of four children in a musical family. His father, Fyodor Stravinsky, was a bass singer at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg, and his mother, Anna Kholodovsky, was a talented pianist. Stravinsky's early exposure to music came from his parents, which laid the foundation for his future career.
Stravinsky's formal education began at the University of Saint Petersburg, where he initially studied law. However, his passion for music led him to pursue composition under the tutelage of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, a prominent Russian composer and teacher. Rimsky-Korsakov's influence was significant, providing Stravinsky with a solid grounding in orchestration and composition techniques.
Career and Major Works
Stravinsky's career can be divided into distinct periods, each marked by a unique style and approach to composition. His early works, such as the "Fireworks" and "Scherzo Fantastique," caught the attention of Sergei Diaghilev, the impresario of the Ballets Russes. This collaboration led to the creation of Stravinsky's first major ballet, "The Firebird" (1910), which premiered in Paris to great acclaim.
Following "The Firebird," Stravinsky composed "Petrushka" (1911) and "The Rite of Spring" (1913), both of which solidified his reputation as a revolutionary composer. "The Rite of Spring," in particular, was groundbreaking for its complex rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and innovative orchestration. The premiere famously caused a riot due to its avant-garde nature.
Neoclassical Period
In the 1920s, Stravinsky entered his neoclassical period, characterized by a return to traditional forms and structures. Works from this era include "Pulcinella" (1920), "Symphony of Psalms" (1930), and "The Rake's Progress" (1951). This period demonstrated Stravinsky's ability to blend classical forms with modern sensibilities, creating a unique and influential style.
Serialism and Later Years
In the latter part of his career, Stravinsky embraced serialism, a compositional technique developed by Arnold Schoenberg. His adoption of serialism marked a significant shift in his musical language, as seen in works like "Agon" (1957) and "Threni" (1958). Stravinsky continued to compose and conduct until his death on April 6, 1971, in New York City.
Musical Style and Innovations
Stravinsky's music is renowned for its rhythmic complexity, innovative orchestration, and diverse influences. He often incorporated elements from Russian folk music, jazz, and classical traditions, creating a distinctive and eclectic sound. His use of irregular meters, polyrhythms, and dissonance challenged conventional musical norms and paved the way for future composers.
Stravinsky's approach to orchestration was equally innovative. He frequently employed unusual instrument combinations and techniques, such as the use of extended techniques and unconventional timbres. His ability to create vivid and evocative soundscapes contributed to his reputation as a master orchestrator.
Legacy and Influence
Igor Stravinsky's impact on 20th-century music is profound and far-reaching. His works have influenced countless composers, including Leonard Bernstein, Pierre Boulez, and John Adams. Stravinsky's ability to adapt and evolve his style throughout his career ensured his relevance and enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
Stravinsky's influence extends beyond the realm of music. His collaborations with artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau exemplify his interdisciplinary approach to art, which has inspired generations of musicians, choreographers, and visual artists.
Personal Life
Stravinsky married his cousin, Catherine Nossenko, in 1906, and the couple had four children. Despite his demanding career, Stravinsky maintained a close relationship with his family. After Catherine's death in 1939, he married Vera de Bosset, with whom he remained until his death.
Stravinsky's life was marked by frequent relocations due to political and social upheavals. He lived in Russia, Switzerland, France, and eventually the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1945. These experiences influenced his music and contributed to his diverse and cosmopolitan outlook.