Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin, known for works such as the ballets "Anna Karenina" and "Carmen Suite," has passed away at the age of 92, the Bolshoi Theatre announced on August 29 (local time).
The late Russian ballerina Maya Plisetskaya and composer Rodion Shchedrin as a couple. Photo by AFP Yonhap News
The Bolshoi Theatre described Shchedrin as "one of the greatest geniuses of our time" and mourned his passing as "an immense tragedy."
The Mariinsky Theatre in Russia also reported Shchedrin's death, stating, "He was a great Russian composer."
According to Russian news agency TASS, citing multiple sources, Shchedrin died in a hospital in Germany, where he had recently been living, after a long illness.
Born in Moscow on December 16, 1932, Shchedrin gained renown for more than 80 works, including the ballets "Anna Karenina," "Carmen Suite," and "The Seagull," as well as the opera "Lolita," along with numerous symphonies and concertos.
The Bolshoi Theatre stated, "He leaves behind an invaluable artistic legacy that moves the hearts of audiences."
Awarded the title of People's Artist of the USSR in 1981, Shchedrin was recognized as a world-class master, with his works performed at renowned theaters in Western countries as well.
In 1958, he married the legendary ballerina Maya Plisetskaya, and together they became a symbol of the power of Soviet culture.
Plisetskaya, who performed in her husband's works such as "Carmen Suite" at the Bolshoi Theatre, was honored with the highest title for a ballerina, "Prima Ballerina Assoluta." Plisetskaya passed away in 2015 at the age of 89.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
