Olivier Messiaen (1908-1992) was a French composer, organist and teacher, one of the most original musical figures of the twentieth century. Born in Avignon, he became organist of La Trinité in Paris and taught at the Paris Conservatoire.

His works include Turangalîla-Symphonie, Quatuor pour la fin du temps, Vingt regards sur l’Enfant-Jésus, Saint François d’Assise and a vast body of organ music.

Messiaen’s music draws on Catholic theology, birdsong, Hindu rhythm, modes of limited transposition and brilliant colour. It can be ecstatic, monumental, tender and dazzlingly strange.

As a teacher he influenced Boulez, Stockhausen, Xenakis and many others. Messiaen did not merely extend musical language; he built a private cathedral from rhythm, colour and faith.