JEAN-FREDERIC PERRENOUD
Composer
(1912-1988)
After having completed extensive musical and University studies, and composed a considerable number of works, the Swiss composer Jean-Frederic Perrenoud decided to sign his Opus 1, "Initiales", at the age of 35. This work for the piano consists of 7 short pieces, each of which represents one aspect of J.-F. Perrenoud's musical language. In fact, the composer had been trying for years to discover and develop his very subtle personal style. His music is a return to original sources, to authentic forces. It raised enthusiasm wherever it was performed. The composer left behind him a great number of works: five symphonies, several concertos, works for orchestra, as well as chamber music for different instruments, and vocal music. Perrenoud's music is unique and at once recognizable. It is tense and its rhythms vehement. Neither tonal nor atonal, it is free from constraint and does not belong to any tradition. As for melody and rhythm, it goes its own ways. The sonorous effect alone dictates composition and form.