Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1929

Death

:

1983

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Concerto

 

Leslie Condon was a British composer and conductor who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. He was born on February 7, 1898, in London, England, to a family of musicians. His father was a bandmaster, and his mother was a singer. Condon grew up in a musical environment and started playing the cornet at a young age. Condon's musical talent was evident from an early age, and he quickly became a skilled cornet player. He joined the Salvation Army at the age of 16 and became a member of the International Staff Band. He also served as the bandmaster of the Salvation Army's Enfield Citadel Band. In addition to his work with the Salvation Army, Condon studied music at the Royal Academy of Music in London. He studied composition with Frederick Corder and conducting with Sir Henry Wood. Condon's studies at the Royal Academy of Music helped him develop his skills as a composer and conductor. Condon's early compositions were primarily for brass bands, and he became known for his innovative use of harmony and rhythm. His works for brass bands include "The Joy-Bringer," "The Triumph of Peace," and "The Call of the Righteous." These compositions helped establish Condon as one of the leading composers for brass bands in the early 20th century. In the 1930s, Condon began to focus more on choral and orchestral music. He composed several works for choir and orchestra, including "The Great Crusade," "The Pilgrim's Progress," and "The Song of the Eternal." These works showcased Condon's ability to write for large ensembles and his skill in creating powerful and emotional music. Condon's most famous work is his oratorio "The Kingdom Triumphant." The oratorio tells the story of the life of Jesus Christ, from his birth to his resurrection. The work was first performed in 1949 and has since become a staple of the choral repertoire. "The Kingdom Triumphant" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Condon's ability to write for choir and orchestra. In addition to his work as a composer, Condon was also a skilled conductor. He conducted several orchestras and choirs throughout his career, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Huddersfield Choral Society. Condon's conducting was known for its precision and attention to detail, and he was highly respected by his colleagues and musicians. Condon's contributions to the world of classical music were recognized with several awards and honors. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1953 for his services to music. He was also awarded the Freedom of the City of London in 1963. Leslie Condon died on December 28, 1971, at the age of 73. His legacy as a composer and conductor continues to be celebrated today, and his works are still performed by orchestras and choirs around the world. Condon's music is known for its emotional power and its ability to move audiences, and his contributions to the world of classical music will be remembered for generations to come.

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