Composer · 1896 - 1989
Virgil Thomson
Biography
Virgil Thomson (b Kansas City, MO, 25 Nov 1896; d New York, 30 Sept 1989). American composer and critic.
He produced a highly original body of diverse music rooted in American speech rhythms and hymnbook harmony, and controlled by exquisite sensibilities. His collaboration with Gertrude Stein resulted in two extraordinary stage works, and his keen ear, his wit and the elegance of his writing established him as one of the sharpest music critics in the USA.