Role

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Conductor Performer

 

Sir David Wilcocks was a renowned British choral conductor, organist, and composer who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. He was born on December 30, 1919, in Hove, Sussex, England, to a musical family. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a singer. Wilcocks showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later learned to play the organ and became a chorister at Westminster Abbey. Wilcocks attended Clifton College in Bristol, where he continued to develop his musical skills. He then went on to study music at New College, Oxford, where he was a chorister and organ scholar. During his time at Oxford, Wilcocks became interested in choral conducting and began to develop his skills in this area. After completing his studies, Wilcocks became the organist and choirmaster at the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Oxford. He also worked as a music teacher at Clifton College and later at Eton College. In 1957, he was appointed the director of music at King's College, Cambridge, a position he held for 17 years. During his time at King's College, Wilcocks became known for his work with the choir, which he transformed into one of the world's leading choral ensembles. He introduced new repertoire and arrangements, including his famous arrangement of "Once in Royal David's City," which has become a staple of the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols broadcast from King's College Chapel. Wilcocks also conducted many notable performances during his time at King's College, including the first performance of Benjamin Britten's "War Requiem" in 1962. He also conducted the choir in recordings of Handel's "Messiah" and Bach's "St. Matthew Passion," which are still considered some of the finest recordings of these works. In addition to his work at King's College, Wilcocks was also a prolific composer and arranger. He wrote many choral works, including "Jubilate Deo," "Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis," and "Requiem." He also arranged many traditional hymns and carols, including "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and "O Come, All Ye Faithful." Wilcocks received many honors and awards during his career, including a knighthood in 1977 for his services to music. He was also awarded the Order of Merit by Queen Elizabeth II in 2011, becoming only the 22nd person to receive this honor since it was established in 1902. Wilcocks continued to work in music until his death on September 11, 2015, at the age of 95. His legacy lives on through his many compositions and arrangements, as well as through the many musicians he inspired and mentored throughout his career. In conclusion, Sir David Wilcocks was a highly respected and influential figure in the world of classical music. His contributions to choral music, both as a conductor and composer, have had a lasting impact and continue to be celebrated today. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to excellence have inspired generations of musicians and will continue to do so for many years to come.

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