A German composer born March 14, 1930 in Lahr (Germany), died May 20, 2018.
A pianist by training, Dieter Schnebel studied at the Musikhochschule and the University of Freiburg, then at the University of Tübingen (musicology, theology and philosophy). He also followed the Kranichsteiner Ferienkurse für Neue Musik in Darmstadt, where he acquainted himself notably with the composition techniques of Ernst Krenek, Luigi Nono and Pierre Boulez.
Schnebel has composed for all genres: solo instrument (Bagatelles for piano, 1986), chamber music (Calls for horn and cello, 2006), orchestra (Sinfonie X for contralto, large orchestra and electronics, 2004), vocal music (Motetus I for double mixed chorus, 1993), as well as operas (Majakowskis Tod, 1997; Utopien, music theatre, 2013). Inspired by John Cage, he undertook numerous experiments, notably with regard to serial technique (the cycle Versuche 1953-1965), spatialisation (Museumsstücke I, 1992), yet also sound production by the body and the experimental theatre of voice and gesture (Ki, no for loudspeakers, percussion, tape and video-projectors, 1967; Laut-gesturen-Laute, 1981). He has also composed sacred music (Für Stimmen… missa est for mixed chorus, 1958), works that refer to mythology (Pan for flute and accompaniment ad lib., 1988; Medusa for accordion, 1993) and happily revisits the past (Mozart-Moment for chamber orchestra, 1989; O Liebe! - süßer Tod..., 5 lieder after J. S. Bach, 2017).
Schnebel taught theology and religion before becoming a teacher of experimental music and of composition at the Hochschule der Künste in Berlin (1976-1995).
