A renowned composer and educator, he was a master of organ music, creating intricate and expressive works that showcased his technical skill and artistic vision.
Sigfrid Karg-Elert, a German composer, left an indelible mark on the world of classical music with his extensive repertoire of harmonium and organ compositions. Born on November 21, 1877, in Oberndorf am Neckar, Germany, Karg-Elert's life was a testament to his passion for creating beautiful music that continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
Karg-Elert was the youngest of twelve children born to Johann Jacob Karg, a book dealer, and Marie Auguste Karg. The family settled in Leipzig in 1882, where Karg-Elert received his first musical training and private piano instruction. A chance meeting with composer Emil von Reznicek led to a three-year tuition-free scholarship at the Leipzig Conservatory, where he studied under renowned composers Salomon Jadassohn, Carl Reinecke, Alfred Reisenauer, and Robert Teichmüller.
In 1904, Karg-Elert met Berlin publisher Carl Simon, who introduced him to the harmonium. This encounter marked the beginning of a new chapter in Karg-Elert's life, as he went on to create one of the most significant and extensive catalogs of original works for this instrument. His compositions for harmonium, encouraged by Edvard Grieg, whom he greatly admired, showcased his mastery of melody and harmony.
Encouraged by organist Paul Homeyer, Karg-Elert reworked several of his harmonium compositions for organ, before composing his first original organ piece, 66 Chorale Improvisations, Op. 65 in 1909. His teaching career took off in 1910, when he was appointed instructor of music theory at the Leipzig Conservatory, a position he held until his death in 1933.
In 1910, Karg-Elert married Luise Kretzschmar, and four years later, their daughter Katharina was born. During World War I, he served as a regimental oboist. Karg-Elert's legacy extends far beyond his compositions; he is remembered as a devoted teacher, husband, and father.
Sigfrid Karg-Elert's life was a testament to his passion for music and his dedication to his craft. His contributions to the world of classical music continue to inspire and delight audiences, ensuring his legacy as one of the most important composers of his time.
Born in 1873
A renowned late Romantic composer, organist, and conductor, known for his prolific output of complex, intricate works that blended tradition with innovation.
Born in 1863
A renowned pianist, composer, and conductor, known for his interpretations of Beethoven and Brahms, as well as his own symphonic works.
Born in 1908
A renowned organist, composer, and conductor, known for his innovative and expressive works for the organ, particularly his chorale preludes and partitas. His music is characterized by its lyricism, counterpoint, and rich harmony.
Born in 1585
A renowned Baroque composer and organist, known for his contributions to the development of the oratorio and passion genres, creating over 500 works that showcased his mastery of choral music.
Born in 1833
A renowned pianist and composer, he crafted complex, expressive works that blended traditional and innovative techniques, leaving an indelible mark on classical music.
Born in 1864
A renowned composer and conductor of the late Romantic era, known for his tone poems and operas that showcased his mastery of orchestration and expressive storytelling.
Born in 1895
A renowned composer and educator, he's famous for his iconic cantata "Carmina Burana", which has become a cultural phenomenon, and his innovative approach to music education.
Born in 1869
A late Romantic composer and conductor, known for his operas and symphonic works that blended traditional and modern elements. His music is characterized by its lyricism and rich orchestration.
