Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1848

Death

:

1927

 

Richard Strutt was a British composer and pianist who lived from 1910 to 2002. He was born in London and showed an early interest in music, beginning piano lessons at the age of six. His parents were both amateur musicians, and they encouraged his musical pursuits. Strutt attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he studied piano with Harold Craxton and composition with John Ireland. He graduated with honors in 1931 and began his career as a concert pianist. He performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States, earning critical acclaim for his virtuosic playing. In addition to his career as a performer, Strutt was also a prolific composer. He wrote in a variety of genres, including orchestral works, chamber music, solo piano pieces, and vocal music. His style was influenced by the music of his contemporaries, including Benjamin Britten and William Walton, as well as by the classical tradition. One of Strutt's early successes was his Piano Concerto, which he composed in 1936. The work was premiered by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, with Strutt as the soloist. It was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and helped establish Strutt as a composer of note. During World War II, Strutt served in the British Army, but continued to compose whenever possible. One of his most famous works from this period is his String Quartet No. 2, which he wrote in 1943. The piece is notable for its use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies, which reflect the turmoil of the war years. After the war, Strutt continued to compose and perform, and his reputation as a composer grew. He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1965 for his contributions to music. One of Strutt's most famous works is his Symphony No. 1, which he composed in 1951. The piece is notable for its use of folk melodies and rhythms, which reflect Strutt's interest in traditional music. The symphony was premiered by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and has since become a staple of the orchestral repertoire. In addition to his larger works, Strutt also wrote many smaller pieces for solo piano. One of his most famous piano works is his Sonata No. 2, which he composed in 1957. The piece is notable for its virtuosic demands on the performer, as well as its use of unconventional harmonies and rhythms. Throughout his career, Strutt remained committed to the classical tradition, but also embraced new ideas and techniques. He was a respected teacher and mentor to many young composers, and his influence can be heard in the work of his students. Richard Strutt died in 2002 at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to be performed and admired today. His contributions to the classical repertoire are significant, and his work remains an inspiration to composers and performers around the world.

More....