Marie Joseph Canteloube de Malaret

Marie Joseph Canteloube de Malaret (1879-1957) was a French composer and ethnomusicologist, best known for his contributions to the realm of folk music and art song. His primary genre was classical music, with a focus on choral and vocal works. Canteloube’s most notable composition is "Chants d’Auvergne," a collection of songs that beautifully integrate traditional Auvergnat folk melodies with rich harmonies and orchestral arrangements, showcasing the cultural heritage of the Auvergne region in central France. His work is characterized by its melodic charm and lyrical simplicity, which helped popularize French folk music in the classical repertoire. Canteloube's approach to incorporating regional folk elements into classical music has had a lasting impact, influencing later composers to explore folk traditions within their own works. Aside from his compositions, Canteloube was dedicated to the preservation and study of folk music, further enriching the understanding of regional musical traditions. His efforts in ethnomusicology and his unique blend of folk and classical styles have left a significant mark on music, making him an important figure in the early 20th-century French music scene.