Edison Denisov; Russian Composer of Modern Music

Edison Denisov, 67, a Russian composer denounced--and later awarded the title of renowned master of the arts--by Soviet authorities. Denisov graduated from the Moscow State Conservatory in 1956, and began teaching there four years later. Over the next decade Denisov became a master of modern music. But Soviet newspapers derided him as an “upstart,” “pseudo-innovator” and “person without talent.” He was forbidden to attend premieres of his work in European capitals. As Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms parted the Iron Curtain, Denisov was awarded the title of renowned master of the arts in 1989. His works include “Sun of the Incas” (1964); “Ode for Instrumental Ensemble” (1968); “Romantic Music for Oboe, Harp and String Trio” (1968); “Requiem,” which premiered in Hamburg in 1980, and the opera “L’Ecume des Jours,” which premiered in Paris in 1985. On Saturday in Paris.