Tal, Josef (1910– )

Polish-born Israeli composer. He studied in Berlin with Tiessen and Trapp, settling in Palestine in 1934. In 1937 he became professor of composition and piano at the Jerusalem Conservatory and in 1950 lecturer at the Hebrew University there, also being director of the Conservatory 1948–55.

Works Opera Saul at Ein Dor (1957), Amnon and Tamar (1961), Ashmedai (1971), Massada 967 (1973), Die Versuchung (1976), Der Turm (1987), Der Garten (1988), and Josef (1993).

Choral with orchestra The Death of Moses, requiem oratorio for soloists, chorus, and tape (1967).

Orchestral two symphonies; Exodus choreographed poem for orchestra; Visions for string orchestra; six piano concertos (1944–70), viola concerto; symphonic cantata A Mother Rejoices.

Other sonatas for violin, oboe; piano pieces; songs; electronic music.