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Sergius KagenAmerican composer and educator
Date of Birth: 22.08.1909
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Teaching Career
- Publications and Artistic Contributions
- Compositional Legacy
- Performance and Collaboration
Early Life and Education
Born to a newspaper editor father and a teacher mother, Isidor Kagen began his musical journey in Russia. His talent led him to the prestigious Berlin Hochschule für Musik, where he studied under Leonid Kreutzer and Paul Juon. In 1925, he embarked on further studies at the Juilliard School in New York City, where he received tutelage from renowned musicians Karl Friedberg, Rubin Goldmark, and Marcella Sembrich.
Teaching Career
Kagen's passion for teaching became evident during his early years at Juilliard, where he assisted Sembrich's class. He later established his own pedagogy, mentoring notable vocalists such as conductor David Leibowitz and singers Jen De Gaetano, Evelyn Lear, and Lorna Haywood.
Publications and Artistic Contributions
Kagen's scholarly contributions include meticulously curated anthologies featuring acclaimed composers. He meticulously assembled collections of songs and arias by Handel, Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, Chausson, Debussy, Hahn, Wolf, and "40 French Songs from Berlioz to Duparc." His esteemed book "On Studying Singing" (1950) remains a valuable resource for vocalists, with later editions updated by his wife. Additionally, his teaching aid "Music for the Voice" proved invaluable for generations of singers.
Compositional Legacy
In his later years, Kagen turned his attention to composition. His operatic works include "Hamlet" (1962) and an unfinished piece based on Molière's "Monsieur de Pourceaugnac." His extensive catalog also encompasses over fifty songs and romances, often setting texts by renowned poets like James Joyce.
Performance and Collaboration
Beyond his teaching and writing, Kagen also performed occasionally as a pianist, primarily accompanying vocalists in concerts. His musical collaborations showcased his versatility and deep understanding of vocal artistry.
