Hector Berlioz

About

French composer of the Romantic era best remembered for compositions like Symphonie Fantastique and for his influential Treatise on Instrumentation.

Before Fame

Unlike many famous composers, he was not a child prodigy and did not begin studying music until the age of twelve.

Trivia

He was also a well-known writer and music critic who wrote for publications like Debats.

Family Life

His father, Louis-Joseph, was a respected physician.

Associated With

His influence can be heard in the work of later composers like Richard Wagner.