Magnien began studying music in 1814, but the studies were regularly interrupted beacuse of the war.
In 1817, his father sent him to Paris to study music, particularly violin with R. Kreutzer.He took at the same time courses guitar with Carulli.
In 2 years, he became a guitarist in Paris, while also maintaining good skill on the violin.
In 1820, he returned to Colmar with his family.
He gave courses in Colmar of guitar and violin.
It was soon known in Mulhouse, where he began to compose.
He was traveling to Paris for a period of 3 months during a year to complete its investigation and editing his works (from 1827 to 1831, edited Richault thirty works), and the jorney to Germany gave him the opportunity to hear and meet great masters.

In 1831 he was appointed director of the orchestra of the Philharmonic Society Beauvais (Oise), but also voice teacher in schools.

He remained there 16 years and married there.He expanded the musical culture of the city, and was chosen to lead the Conservatoire de Lille (circa 1848).