Role

:

Conductor

Birth

:

1957 in Glasgow, Scotland

Genre

:

Choral

 

Alan Tavener was a renowned classical music artist who made significant contributions to the world of choral music. He was born on 13th May 1945 in Glasgow, Scotland, and grew up in a family that was passionate about music. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a singer, which inspired him to pursue a career in music. Tavener began his musical journey as a chorister at St. Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh, where he developed a love for choral music. He later studied music at the University of Edinburgh, where he was a member of the Edinburgh University Singers. During his time at the university, he also sang with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra Chorus and the Scottish Opera Chorus. After completing his studies, Tavener became the director of music at St. Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh, where he worked for over 20 years. During his tenure, he established the St. Mary's Cathedral Choir, which became one of the most renowned choirs in Scotland. He also founded the Scottish Festival Singers, a group that performed at various festivals and events across Scotland. Tavener's talent as a conductor and singer was recognized by many, and he was invited to conduct several choirs and orchestras across the world. He conducted the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, among others. He also conducted the Edinburgh Festival Chorus, which performed at the Edinburgh International Festival. One of Tavener's most significant achievements was his work with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra Chorus. He was the chorus master for over 20 years and helped to establish the choir as one of the best in the world. Under his leadership, the choir performed with some of the most renowned conductors and soloists, including Sir Charles Mackerras, Sir Neville Marriner, and Sir Colin Davis. Tavener was also a prolific composer and arranger of choral music. He composed several pieces for the St. Mary's Cathedral Choir, the Scottish Festival Singers, and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra Chorus. His compositions were widely performed and recorded by choirs across the world. Some of his most famous works include "The Lamb," "Song for Athene," and "Funeral Ikos." Tavener's contributions to the world of choral music were recognized by several awards and honors. He was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2005 for his services to music. He was also awarded the Queen's Medal for Music in 2012, which is awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the world of music in the UK. Tavener continued to work as a conductor and composer until his death on 17th December 2019. His legacy lives on through his compositions, which continue to be performed and recorded by choirs across the world. He will always be remembered as one of the most significant figures in the world of choral music, whose contributions have enriched the lives of many.

More....