Role

:

Composer Performer

Birth

:

1959

Genre

:

Avant-Garde

 

 

Chamber

 

 

Vocal

 

Will Gregory is a British composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on September 17, 1959, in Bristol, England, Gregory grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer. Gregory started playing the clarinet at the age of 11 and later learned to play the saxophone, flute, and keyboards. Gregory's interest in music led him to study at the University of York, where he earned a degree in music. During his time at the university, he became interested in contemporary classical music and started experimenting with electronic music. He also formed a band called The Grimms with Kevin Ayers, Andy Summers, and others. After completing his studies, Gregory moved to London and started working as a session musician. He played saxophone and keyboards for various artists, including Peter Gabriel, Tears for Fears, and Tori Amos. He also worked as a composer and arranger for film and television, including the BBC series "The Singing Detective." In the 1990s, Gregory formed the band Goldfrapp with singer Alison Goldfrapp. The band's music combined elements of electronic, pop, and classical music, and they became known for their theatrical live performances. Goldfrapp released their debut album, "Felt Mountain," in 2000, which received critical acclaim and earned them a Mercury Prize nomination. While working with Goldfrapp, Gregory continued to compose classical music. In 2004, he composed a concerto for saxophone and orchestra, which was premiered by the BBC Concert Orchestra. He also composed a piece for the London Sinfonietta called "Shadow Play," which was performed at the Royal Festival Hall in London. In 2008, Gregory collaborated with the British composer Joby Talbot on a piece called "Tide Harmonic," which was commissioned by the BBC Concert Orchestra. The piece combined electronic and acoustic elements and was performed at the BBC Proms. Gregory's most recent classical work is a piece called "Picardie," which was commissioned by the BBC Philharmonic. The piece is inspired by the landscape of Picardie in northern France and features a solo cello and orchestra. It was premiered in 2019 and received critical acclaim. Throughout his career, Gregory has been recognized for his contributions to classical music. He was awarded the British Composer Award for Innovation in 2012 and was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2019 for his services to music. In conclusion, Will Gregory is a talented composer and musician who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His interest in contemporary classical music and electronic music has led him to create innovative and unique compositions that have been performed by some of the world's leading orchestras. Gregory's work with Goldfrapp has also helped to bring classical music to a wider audience. With his continued dedication to music, it is clear that Gregory will continue to be a major force in the world of classical music for years to come.

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