Alkan, Charles-Valentin

Pianist and composer, Charles-Valentin Alkan (1813-1888) was particularly active in the 1840s in France. Famous for his outstanding virtuosity, Alkan worked in various genres. His unique imagination was rooted in the imitative French tradition of the 18th century, but was also influenced by Viennese Classicism and the figure of Bach. In 1873, he organised the Petits Concerts de Musique Classique. His best-known work is probably the Grande Sonate “Les Quatre Âges”.

A selection of texts about Charles-Valentin Alkan can be found here. For more detailed information about his life and other related aspects, please visit the Bru Zane Mediabase site.