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Rimas GeniusasLithuanian conductor, pianist and music teacher.
Date of Birth: 28.08.1920
Country:  Russia |
Content:
Early Life and Education
Jonas Aleksa Geniušas was born in Lithuania. His musical training began at the Kaunas Conservatory, where he studied piano under B. Dvarionas and conducting under M. Bukša. He furthered his education at the Leningrad Conservatory from 1949-1959.
Conducting Career
Geniušas made his debut as a conductor in 1945 at the Kaunas Musical Theatre, leading a performance of Rossini's "The Barber of Seville." From 1952-1996, he worked at the Lithuanian Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Vilnius, serving as its chief conductor from 1958-1975 and again from 1991-1993. Notable premieres he conducted include J. Juzeliūnas's ballet "On the Seashore" (1953), V. Klova's opera "Daughter" (1960), and V. Laurašas's opera "Lost Birds" (1967).
Teaching and Legacy
In addition to his conducting career, Geniušas devoted himself to teaching. He taught at the Lithuanian Conservatory from 1949-1999 and became head of the opera training department in 1975. He received the title of professor in 1982.
Awards and Recognition
Geniušas's contributions to music were acknowledged with numerous awards and honors. He was awarded the Lithuanian SSR State Prize in 1960, named a People's Artist of the Lithuanian SSR in 1964, and honored with the Order of Gediminas, Third Degree in 1996.
Family and Legacy
Geniušas's sons, Petras Geniušas (pianist, born 1961) and Julius Geniušas (conductor, born 1962), became professional musicians, continuing their father's musical heritage.
