Franck

Cesar (sa-zari fron), Auguste, compr b. Lidge, Dec. 10, 1822; d. Paris, Nov. 8, 1890. Studied at Lidge Cons.; gave concerts at 11; at Paris Cons. 1835-1842 under Zimmermann on pf Berton comp., Benoist org.; took prizes in all but was prevented by father from competing for Prix de Rome; taught m Bru els 1842-44, then in Paris where he became orgt. at Ste. Clothilda in 1857 and teacher of org. at Cons, in 1872; his works include operas Hidda, GhiseUe; oratorios Ruth et Boaz La redemption, Les beatitudes; symph. poems Psyche (with chorus), Les Rohdes Le cha eur maiukt, Les Djmns (for pf. and orch.), symph. in D min., chamber music, notably sonata for vln. and pf., and quintet for pf. and strings; pf. mus., two operas, and songs. Little appreciated during his life, he lived quietly in Paris delighting in his hard work, his org. playing, and his cla es in org. and comp, where he taught most of the noteworthy members — of the present generation, d’lndy. Chau on, Ropartz, Holmes, and others. His compositions are distinguished for simplicity of spirit and absolute sincerity of expre ion; for the utterance of a calm, strong, uplifting, resigned philosophy; his org. music breathes lofty mysticism, his chamber music is of almost orchestral richne ; technically the qualities of his style are abundance of melody, richne and originality of harmony, architectural dignity of rhythm; its defects are monotony, occasional too great length. (See important life by his pupil, dTndy.)