Ernst Toch (1887-1964) was an Austrian-born composer and teacher who later settled in the United States. Born in Vienna, he became known in Europe as a modern composer before exile redirected his career.

His works include symphonies, chamber music, piano pieces, film scores and experimental vocal works such as the Geographical Fugue. He also contributed to the collaborative Genesis Suite.

Toch’s music is clear, witty, disciplined and often formally inventive, with roots in Central European modernism. He could combine intellectual craft with a surprisingly playful ear.

Like many émigré composers, he rebuilt his life in America while carrying an earlier musical world with him. Toch’s best music has precision, bite and a fine dry spark.