It was soon apparent however, that his individuality and mind-set was characterised by an independence that set him apart from faction, compositional schools and prevailing fashions. He graduated from the Budapest Music Academy in 1956, having studied with János Viski for six years.

During the late 60s he began to develop a distinctive voice that distinguished him from his contemporaries. From the mid 70s it became increasingly noticeable that his use of musical language and harmony revolved around demands for beauty of sound-an approach that came to fruition in the piano sonatas, string quartets and sacred works composed in the 90s.

The work of this exceptionally prolific composer has been recognised by many awards including the Erkel Prize (1974), The Decoration of Artistic Merit (1981), the Bartók?Pásztory Prize (1987), the Distinguished Artist Award and finally, in 1999 the Kossuth Prize. This significant study is the first comprehensive survey of Soproni?s output, and is complemented by a complete List of Works and Recordings.