C

Chopin, Fryderyk (Franciszek), (b. Zelasowa Wola, 1810; d. Paris, 1849). Polish composer and pianist. Began pianoforte studies with Zywny 1816 and played concerto by Gyrowetz in Warsaw 1818. In 1822 began studies in harmony and counterpoint with Josef Elsner, director of Warsaw Conservatory. In 1825 his Rondo in C minor was published as Opus I. The next year entered Warsaw Conservatory as full-time musical student, leaving in 1829. Arrived to Paris September 1831; became pianoforte teacher to aristocracy, gradually renouncing public career and concentrating on composing. Gave first Paris concert in February 1832 and no other in which he was the principal performer until 1841. In 1836 Chopin met the French novelist George Sand and lived with her 1838-47. Died of tuberculosis. Wrote Piano Sonatas, Piano and Orchestra Concertos, Piano and Chamber music.

Cimarosa, Domenico (b. Aversa, Naples, 1749; d. Venice, 1801). Italian composer. Pupil of Fenaroli and (perhaps) Piccinni. Studied in Naples, where he wrote Le stravaganze del conti, first of his 65 operas. Worked in Rome and Naples until 1787 when he went to St. Petersburg as court composer to Catherine II where his operas were less successful than those of his deputy, Soler. In 1791 succeeded Salieri as court Kapellmeister to Leopold II in Vienna. Returned to Naples 1792 as choirmaster to the king. Sentenced to death 1799 for supporting French republican army but reprieved on condition he left Naples. Wrote orchestral works including symphonies, oboe concerts, and Sinfonia Concertante for 2 flute, and over 30 keyboard sonatas.

Cooper, Emil (Albertovich) (b. Kherson, Russia, 1877; d. NY, 1960). Russian-born conductor. Studied Odessa, Vienna (Hellmesberger), Moscow (Taneyev). Début Odessa 1896, Kiev Opera 1900-1904. Conducted first performance of of The Golden Cockerel, Moscow 1909, and its first performance in London 1914. Conducted first productions of Russian cos. of the Ring and Die Miestersinger. Conducted for Diaghilev operas, Paris 1908 and 1909, including Boris Godunov with Chaliapin. London début 1913 (Boris Godunov). Left Russia 1922. Conductor at Chicago Opera 1929-1932, and at NY Met 1944-1950, where he introduced Peter Grimes (1948).