Paul Desenne

Paul Desenne was one of modern Venezuela's most prominent composers. Also active as a cellist, he incorporated Latin American rhythms and instruments into his work. Desenne remained active as a composer, and he began to consider ways of incorporating traditional South American sounds into his music; among his early compositions was the Quinteto del pájaro for flute, oboe, violin, cello, and cuatro (1981). Desenne joined the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra and later served as resident composer for the country's acclaimed national music education system, El Sistema. Desenne wrote five symphonies and other orchestral works. He died in Boston on May 20, 2023.