Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

August 3, 1921 in London, England

Death

:

March 18, 2007 in Danbury, CT

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

Alec Wyton was a British-American composer, organist, and choir director who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on December 21, 1921, in London, England, Wyton was the son of a clergyman and grew up in a musical family. He began playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the organ. His musical talent was evident from an early age, and he went on to study music at the Royal College of Music in London. After completing his studies, Wyton began his career as a church musician. He served as the organist and choir director at several churches in England, including St. Mary's Church in Nottingham and St. Paul's Cathedral in London. In 1950, he moved to the United States and became the organist and choir director at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, a position he held for over 30 years. During his time at St. John the Divine, Wyton became known for his innovative approach to church music. He believed that music should be accessible to everyone, and he worked to create music that was both beautiful and easy to sing. He composed numerous hymns, anthems, and other choral works that were widely performed in churches throughout the United States and beyond. One of Wyton's most famous works is his setting of the hymn "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling." This hymn, which was written by Charles Wesley in the 18th century, is a beloved classic in the Anglican tradition. Wyton's setting of the hymn, which features a soaring melody and lush harmonies, has become one of the most popular versions of the hymn and is still widely sung in churches today. In addition to his work as a church musician, Wyton was also a prolific composer of instrumental music. He wrote numerous works for organ, including preludes, fugues, and other pieces that are still performed by organists today. He also composed several works for orchestra, including a symphony and a concerto for organ and orchestra. Wyton's music is known for its beauty, simplicity, and accessibility. He believed that music should be a source of joy and inspiration for everyone, and he worked tirelessly to create music that would be meaningful to people of all ages and backgrounds. His music continues to be performed and enjoyed by musicians and audiences around the world. Wyton was also a respected music educator. He taught at several universities and music schools throughout his career, including the Juilliard School in New York City and the Yale School of Music in New Haven, Connecticut. He was known for his passionate and engaging teaching style, and he inspired countless students to pursue careers in music. In addition to his work as a composer and educator, Wyton was also a devoted husband and father. He was married to his wife, Mary, for over 60 years, and they had three children together. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor, and he was beloved by all who knew him. Alec Wyton passed away on October 1, 2007, at the age of 85. His legacy as a composer, musician, and educator lives on through his music and the countless students and musicians he inspired throughout his career. He will always be remembered as a true master of his craft and a beloved figure in the world of classical music.

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