Jeanne Leleu

Composer and pianist Jeanne Leleu enjoyed considerable success in the second quarter of the 20th century, writing many works in larger forms. She was also a prominent educator. At nine, Leleu enrolled at the Conservatoire de Paris, studying with some of the leading teachers of the day. When she was 11, she and Geneviève Durony gave the premiere performance of Ravel's Ma Mère l'Oye. Leleu's compositions were often performed and garnered considerable press coverage in their day. She wrote music in most major genres, including a number of works in such large forms as symphonic suites and ballets. In 1947, she joined the faculty of the Conservatoire de Paris as a professor of sight-reading. She became professor of harmony there in 1952 and remained in the post until her retirement in 1967, continuing to compose. Leleu died in Paris on March 11, 1979.