Charles-Marie Widor, a French organist, composer, and teacher, was a prominent figure in the late Romantic era. Here's a quick rundown on his life and achievements:
- Lived a Long Life: Widor was born in Lyon, France on February 21, 1844, and lived a long life until March 12, 1937, passing away at the age of 93 in Paris.
- Master of the Organ: He was particularly renowned for his organ skills and compositions. Notably, he composed ten organ symphonies, with the toccata from his fifth symphony being a popular choice for weddings and other celebratory occasions.
- Respected Pedagogue: Widor wasn't just a talented musician but also a respected teacher. He served as a professor at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, first for organ (following César Franck) and then for composition (succeeding Théodore Dubois).
- Prolific Composer: Beyond the organ, Widor composed a wide range of music, including pieces for piano, voice, and ensembles