Virgil Thomson

Date of Birth: November 25, 1896

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: September 30, 1989

Biography

Virgil Thomson was an influential American composer and critic who played a pivotal role in 20th-century music. Born on November 25, 1896, in Kansas City, Missouri, Thomson’s early exposure to music came from his time in the local church choir and his piano studies. He attended Harvard University, where his interest in modern music was nurtured, particularly through his association with Gertrude Stein, with whom he would later collaborate extensively. Thomson’s career took off when he moved to Paris in the 1920s, becoming part of the expatriate community of American artists and writers. His work in Paris included the critically acclaimed opera “Four Saints in Three Acts,” which featured a libretto by Gertrude Stein and was groundbreaking for its use of an all-black cast. In addition to his compositions, Thomson was a highly respected music critic. He served as the chief music critic for the New York Herald Tribune from 1940 to 1954, where his incisive and often controversial reviews had a lasting impact on the field. His other notable works include scores for films such as “The Plow That Broke the Plains” and “The River,” as well as his symphonies, chamber music, and vocal works. Thomson received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1949 for his film score to “Louisiana Story.” He continued to compose and write until his death on September 30, 1989.

5 Interesting Facts about Virgil Thomson

1. Thomson collaborated with Gertrude Stein on the opera “Four Saints in Three Acts,” which was unique for its all-black cast.

2. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1949 for his film score to “Louisiana Story.”

3. Thomson served as the chief music critic for the New York Herald Tribune from 1940 to 1954.

4. He wrote an influential book, “The State of Music,” in which he explored the dynamics of the music industry and its impact on composers.

5. He was known for his blunt and often critical reviews, earning him both respect and controversy in the music world.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Virgil Thomson

1. “I have always wished for the courage of the early astronauts. I envy them the ultimate adventure.”

2. “Music is a language, but not a universal language.”

3. “In Paris, you learn wit, in London you learn to crush your social rivals, and in Florence you learn poise.”

4. “I look at you and I write down what I hear.”

5. “Virgil Thomson, the composer, is a person who writes music. Virgil Thomson, the critic, is a person who writes about people who write music.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Thomson’s highest net worth is difficult to ascertain precisely, but he was comfortably well-off, especially later in life, thanks to his successful career as both a composer and a critic.