Frédéric Devreese (2 June 1929 – 28 September 2020) was a Belgian composer of mostly orchestral, chamber and piano works that have been performed throughout the world; he was also active as a conductor. Devreese is known for his film scores, including Benvenuta by André Delvaux and The Cruel Embrace by Marion Hänsel.

Career

Born in Amsterdam, Devreese received his first musical training from his father, the composer-conductor Godfried Devreese (1893–1972). He studied composition with Marcel Poot and conducting with René Defossez in Brussels, composition with Ildebrando Pizzetti at the Accademia Santa Cecilia in Rome from 1952 to 1955 and conducting with Hans Swarowsky at the University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna in 1955–56. Devreese composed music for piano, chamber music, orchestra, choir, opera and ballet, but became widely known initially for his film scores. In addition, he wrote the imposed work for the Reine Elisabeth music competition in Brussels (1983, Concerto No. 4) and the Adolphe Sax competition in Dinant (1998, Ostinati). He served as conductor of the BRT Philharmonic Orchestra and guest-conducted orchestras throughout the world. For his recordings for Marco Polo's series Anthology of Flemish Music, he was nominated for the Cultural Ambassador of Flanders in 1996–97.

Personal life

Devreese was married to Annie De Clerck. He died of cancer.

Awards

Devreese received the following prizes:

Honours

He was knighted by Albert II of Belgium in 1996. His motto is Tenuto.

Works

Stage

Orchestral

Chamber music

Choral

Piano

Film scores (by director)

Discography