Joonas Kokkonen

Joonas Kokkonen (November 21, 1921 – October 1 or 2, 1996) was a Finnish composer. He was one of the most internationally famous Finnish composers of the 20th century after Sibelius; his opera The Last Temptations has received over 500 performances worldwide, and is considered by many to be Finland's most distinguished national opera.

Life

He was born in Iisalmi, Finland, but spent almost all of his life in Järvenpää. He received his education at the University of Helsinki, and later at the Sibelius Academy, where he afterwards taught composition; his students there included Aulis Sallinen. In addition to his activities as a composer, he was a significant and powerful influence on Finnish cultural life, serving as a chairman and organizer, heading organizations such as Society of Finnish Composers, the Board of the Concert Centre, and others. His purpose was always to improve music education, as well as the status and appreciation of classical music as well as the music of Finland. In the 1960s and early 1970s he won numerous prizes for his work.

Related Topics:
Iisalmi - Järvenpää - University of Helsinki - Sibelius Academy - Aulis Sallinen

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The date of his death has been variously reported as October 1, 1996 (New Grove Dictionary, and various internet sources); October 2, 1996 (many internet sources, including the Finnish Music Center); and October 20, 1996 (New Grove Dictionary of Opera).

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