Jean Sibelius

Profession: Composer

Nationality:

Biography: Jean Sibelius was a Finnish composer and violinist. He is widely recognized as his country's greatest composer and, through his music, is often credited with having helped Finland to develop a national identity during its struggle for independence from Russia.

Sibelius began studying music at an early age and showed great talent for the violin. He later studied at the Helsinki Music Institute and then at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik. After a brief period back in Finland, he returned to Berlin to study composition with Ferdinand Hiller.

Sibelius's early works were heavily influenced by the Romantic German tradition. He later developed his own, more distinctive style, which was often compared to that of his contemporary, Gustav Mahler. His best-known works include the symphonies Nos. 2, 5 and 7, the violin concerto, the tone poem Finlandia and the choral work The Voyage of the Lone Tree.

Born: December 8, 1865
Birthplace: Tavastehus, Finland
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: September 20, 1957 (aged 91)