Iuzeliunas, Iulius Aleksandro

(also Julius Juzeliünas). Born Feb. 7 (20), 1916, in Čepolije, in what is now the Latvian SSR. Soviet composer and educator. People’s Artist of the Lithuanian SSR (1966); doctor of art studies (1973).

In 1948, Iuzeliunas graduated from the Kaunas Conservatory, where he had studied composition under J. Gruodis. He completed graduate work under V. V. Voloshinov at the Leningrad Conservatory in 1952. Iuzeliunas began teaching composition at the Lithuanian Conservatory in 1952 and became a professor there in 1970.

Iuzeliunas’ works are closely associated with Lithuanian folklore. His ethnic background is most clearly reflected in his approach to tonality. His works include the operas Rebels (1957) and The Game (1968); the ballet On the Seashore (1953); four symphonies (1948, 1951, 1965, 1974); a concerto for organ and orchestra (1969) and concerti for various other instruments and orchestra; orchestral works; and instrumental and vocal chamber works.

Iuzeliunas has been awarded the Order of Lenin and two other orders.