Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

May 18, 1949 in London, England

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Rick Wakeman is a renowned English keyboardist, composer, and songwriter who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on May 18, 1949, in Perivale, Middlesex, England, Wakeman grew up in a musical family. His father, Cyril Frank Wakeman, was a pianist, and his mother, Mildred Helen Wakeman, was a cellist. Wakeman's parents encouraged him to pursue music from a young age, and he began playing the piano at the age of five. Wakeman attended Drayton Manor Grammar School in London, where he excelled in music and won several awards for his piano playing. He went on to study music at the Royal College of Music in London, where he received classical training in piano, organ, and composition. Wakeman's classical training would later influence his work as a composer and keyboardist. In the early 1970s, Wakeman joined the progressive rock band Yes as their keyboardist. He quickly became known for his virtuosic keyboard playing and his use of electronic instruments such as the Moog synthesizer. Wakeman's contributions to Yes's albums, including Fragile and Close to the Edge, helped to establish the band as one of the most innovative and influential in the progressive rock genre. In addition to his work with Yes, Wakeman also released several solo albums throughout the 1970s. His solo work often featured classical influences and showcased his skills as a composer and keyboardist. Some of his most notable solo albums include The Six Wives of Henry VIII, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, and The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Wakeman's compositions often drew inspiration from historical and literary themes. For example, The Six Wives of Henry VIII is a concept album that explores the lives of Henry VIII's six wives through music. Journey to the Centre of the Earth is a musical adaptation of Jules Verne's novel of the same name, while The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table tells the story of King Arthur and his knights through music. Wakeman's work as a composer and keyboardist has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He has been nominated for several Grammy Awards and has won several awards for his contributions to music, including the Ivor Novello Award for Best Film Score for the movie White Rock. In addition to his work as a musician, Wakeman has also been involved in several other projects throughout his career. He has written several books, including an autobiography titled Say Yes! and a novel titled The Caped Crusader. He has also worked as a radio and television presenter, hosting shows such as Grumpy Old Men and Countdown. Despite his many accomplishments, Wakeman has faced several challenges throughout his career. He has struggled with alcoholism and has been open about his struggles with depression. However, he has also been an advocate for mental health awareness and has used his platform to raise awareness about these issues. Today, Wakeman continues to be an active musician and composer. He has released several albums in recent years, including Piano Odyssey and The Red Planet. He also continues to tour and perform, both as a solo artist and as a member of Yes. In conclusion, Rick Wakeman is a highly influential and accomplished musician and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music.

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