Kalafati, Vasili (Pavlovich)

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Kalafati, Vasili (Pavlovich)

Kalafati, Vasili (Pavlovich), Russian composer and pedagogue of Greek descent; b. Eupatoria, Feb. 10, 1869; d. Leningrad, Jan. 30, 1942. He studied at the St. Petersburg Cons. with Rimsky-Korsakov, graduating in 1899, and subsequently was on its teaching staff (1907-29). A musician of thorough knowledge, he was held in great esteem by his colleagues and students; Rimsky- Korsakov sent Stravinsky to him for additional training in harmony. As a composer, Kalafati faithfully continued the traditions of the Russian national school. His works include an opera, Zygany (The Gypsies; 1939-41), a Sym., a Piano Quintet, 2 piano sonatas, piano pieces, and a number of songs, all set in impeccably euphonious harmonies.

—Nicolas Slonimsky/Laura Kuhn/Dennis McIntire