Hector Berlioz

Berlioz  Born in France  Began studying music at age 12  Was not a prodigy like many other composers of his day  Never learned to play the piano  Proficient at guitar, flageolet, & flute

Academics  After finishing high school, he went to Paris to study medicine.  While in Paris, he became interested opera and he began studying composition.  His father was so furious with Berlioz’s distraction with music that he cut off financial support.  After three years of medical school, he quit to pursue his music career.  Two years later he entered the Paris Conservatory to formally study music.

Music  Credited for creating the modern orchestra  His new style of composition led directly to the Romantic Period of music.  Wrote Symphonie Fantastique, which brought him much fame