Tona Scherchen

Swiss composer, born 12 March 1938 in Neuchâtel. Daughter of the conductor Hermann Scherchen and the composer Xiao Shuxian (Hsiao-Shu-Sien). Started musical studies at the Conservatories of Shangai and Beijing. Back to Europe in 1961 where she studied with Olivier Messiaen and György Ligeti. Premier prix du Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris, 1964. First Prize of the Gaudeamus foundation Composer's competition for "Tzang", 1967. Prix Stéphane-Chapelier-Clergue-gabriel-Marie", France, 1972.