Born: 1970, Boulogne-Billancourt, France

An eclectic composer of broad inspiration, Connesson is very much a product of the French conservatory system, and his music has won a number of important French prizes. He teaches orchestration at the Conservatoire National de Région d'Aubervilliers and directs the Chorus of the Universities of Paris, in addition to serving as composer in association with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. His early works, such as Night Club and Disco-Toccata, often drew upon pop elements, and American Minimalism and movies have also been important influences – he has composed a 140-minute score for F. W. Murnau’s classic 1927 silent film Sunrise.

Further listening:
The Shining One (piano concerto, 2009)
Eric Le Sage, piano; Royal Scottish National
Orchestra, Stéphane Denève (Chandos)