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“In reality, the development of an artist consists not in the external development (a search for form for the unchangeable state of the soul), but rather in the inner development (the reflection of spiritually attained wishes in the form of painting). The content of the soul of the artist enlarges, it becomes more precise, and increases in inner dimensions, upward, downward and in all directions. At that moment at which a certain inner level is reached, the outward form lends itself to being at the disposal of the inner value of this level. And on the other hand, at the very moment when inner growth comes to a standstill, and immediately falls prey to the decline of the inner dimensions, the ‘already achieved form’ slips away from the artist. Thus we often see this dying of the form, which is the dying of the inner wish. Thus an artist loses mastery over his own form, which becomes fatigued, weak, poor. And so is explained the miracle that an artist suddenly, for example, no longer can paint, or that his earlier, living color lies on the canvas as a pale, mere illusion, as an artistic carcass. The decadence of form is the decadence of the soul, that is, of meaning. And the increase of form is the growth of content, that is, of the soul. When we apply these standards to the paintings of Schönberg, we see immediately that we are dealing here with painting, whether or not this painting may lie ‘apart’ from the great ‘movements of today.’ We see that in every painting of Schönberg, the inner wish of the artist speaks in the form that best befits it. Just as with his music, (inasmuch as I a layman may affirm), Schönberg also in his painting renounces the superfluous, (therefore the harmful) and proceeds along a direct path to the essential, (therefore to the necessary). He leaves alone, unnoticed, all ‘embellishments’ and artistic detail.” (Wassily Kandinsky, The Paintings, in Arnold Schönberg. Mit Beiträgen von Alban Berg et al. Munich 1912)

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Biografía del artista

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Arnold Schoenberg, born September 13, 1874, in Vienna, Austria, embarked on a musical journey shaped by humble origins—his father operated a shoe shop. Despite this modest upbringing, Schoenberg possessed an innate passion for music that propelled him to largely self-educate himself within the realm of composition and theory. His formative years witnessed a synthesis of Brahmsian and Wagnerian styles, as evidenced in his early works like “Verklärte Nacht” (1899), establishing him as a prominent figure within the second Viennese School alongside Alban Berg and Anton Webern. This school championed innovation and challenged established musical conventions.

Notable Compositions and Musical Innovations

Schoenberg’s compositional output solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in 20th-century classical music. Pieces such as “String Quartet No. 2” (1907–1908) and “Erwartung” (1909) exemplify his pioneering exploration of atonality—a radical departure from tonal harmony—marking a pivotal moment in musical history. Furthermore, "Pierrot Lunaire" (1912), with its groundbreaking use of Sprechstimme (speech-song), pushed the boundaries of vocal expression and cemented Schoenberg's position as a visionary composer.

The Viennese School and Serialism

Schoenberg’s influence extended far beyond his immediate contemporaries, shaping the aesthetic sensibilities of subsequent generations of composers. He spearheaded the development of serialism—a systematic method of composition based on mathematical sequences—which revolutionized musical thinking and provided a framework for exploring new sonic possibilities. This approach fundamentally altered how music was conceived and produced during the interwar period.

Emigration to America and Later Artistic Pursuits

Facing increasing persecution from Nazi authorities in 1933, Schoenberg reluctantly resigned from the Prussian Academy of Arts, labeling his music as “degenerate.” He sought refuge in the United States, accepting a professorship at UCLA (1936–1944), where facilities bear his name—a testament to his enduring legacy. During this period, he continued to experiment with film music and revisited tonal composition, culminating in "Chamber Symphony No. 2" (1939). Notably, “Ode to Napoleon” (1942) served as a satirical critique of fascist ideology, inspired by Byron’s poetry.

Legacy and Recognition

Post-war Vienna honored Schoenberg with citizenship, though he succumbed to illness shortly thereafter. His String Trio (1946), reflecting his frail condition, stands as a poignant reminder of his artistic dedication. Recognizing the profound impact of the Holocaust, Schoenberg commemorated its victims in “Survivor from Warsaw” (1947). Finally, the Israel Conservatory and Academy of Music elected him honorary president in 1951—a fitting culmination to a remarkable life devoted to musical innovation and intellectual rigor. His contributions continue to inspire musicians and scholars alike, ensuring his place as an icon of modern classical music.

Arnold Schoenberg

1874 - 1951 , Austria

Datos clave

Artistic Movement Or Style: Técnica dodecafónica; Expresionismo
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
- Anton Webern
- Alban Berg
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Johannes Brahms
- Richard Wagner
Date Of Birth: 13 septiembre 1874
Date Of Death: 1951
Full Name: Arnold Schoenberg
Nationality: Austríaco-americano
Notable Artworks:
- Suite, op. 29
- Música Teclística
- Cuarteto de cuerda nº 2
Place Of Birth: Vienna, Austria