Role

:

Composer Conductor

Birth

:

1910

Genre

:

Choral

 

Stanley Vann was a British composer and organist who was born on 24th May 1910 in London. He was the son of a church organist and began his musical education at an early age. He attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied composition, piano, and organ. He was awarded the prestigious ARCO diploma in 1931 and the FRCO diploma in 1932. After completing his studies, Vann began his career as a church organist. He held positions at several churches in London, including St. Mary's Church in Hendon and St. John's Church in Hampstead. In 1937, he was appointed as the organist and choirmaster at Peterborough Cathedral, where he remained for the next 30 years. During his time at Peterborough Cathedral, Vann became known for his skill as an organist and his talent as a composer. He composed a large number of works for the church, including anthems, hymns, and organ music. His compositions were often performed by the cathedral choir and were well-received by both the congregation and the wider musical community. One of Vann's most famous works is his setting of the Evening Canticles, which he composed in 1952. This piece, which includes settings of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, is still widely performed in churches and cathedrals throughout the UK. Another notable work is his anthem "O Thou, the Central Orb," which was composed in 1951 and is often performed at Christmas services. In addition to his work as a composer and organist, Vann was also a respected music educator. He taught at the Royal College of Music and was a visiting professor at several universities in the UK and the US. He was also a prolific writer on music, and his articles and reviews were published in a number of music journals. Vann retired from his position at Peterborough Cathedral in 1967 but continued to be active in the music world. He was appointed as the organist and choirmaster at St. Albans Cathedral in 1970 and held this position until his death in 2010 at the age of 99. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Stanley Vann made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. His compositions continue to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world, and his legacy as a composer, organist, and educator lives on.

More....