Belgian composer François Glorieux died aged 91 on Friday night, hln.be reported on Saturday, citing the artist’s son.
The artist, born in Courtrai in 1932, was renowned as one of Belgium’s greatest composers. A versatile musician, he was equally at home with classical music, jazz and pop. François Glorieux worked with both conductors and renowned choreographers such as Béjart, Panov and Correlli.
His work has been particularly recognised abroad. For example, he topped the Japanese classical music charts for nine consecutive months. The Belgian counted pop legend Michael Jackson among his fans. Among the general public, he was best known for his ability to improvise and flirt with lighter musical genres.
Francois Glorieux presents his biography ' Francois Glorieux - a life for music ' written by Henri Bultynck's, Friday 30 September 2005 in Antwerp. Credit: Belga / Herwig Vergult
The man presented a youthful musical disposition with early compositions already. At the age of 17, he continued his studies at Ghent Conservatory, notably with pianist Marcel Gazelle and composer George Lonque.
His musical career has taken him to the four corners of the world. He has conducted the Stan Kenton Band in the USA, the Locke Brass Consort and BBC Radio Orchestra in the UK and the Brussels Philharmonic Orchestra, among others.
Glorieux himself has also founded various groups such as Instrumentarium, Panoramic Trio, Brass and Percussion Orchestra and Revivat Scaldis Chamber Orchestra.
A virtuoso, he remained active throughout his life as both a composer and pianist.
