Role

:

Conductor

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

July 5, 1898 in Springville, UT

Death

:

December 22, 1985

 

Richard Condie was a Canadian conductor, organist, and choir director who made significant contributions to the classical music scene in Canada. He was born on March 19, 1918, in Taber, Alberta, Canada, and grew up in a musical family. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a pianist. Condie showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of four. Condie's musical education began at the University of Alberta, where he studied piano and organ. He later continued his studies at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, where he earned a diploma in organ performance. In 1941, he became the organist and choir director at the Metropolitan United Church in Toronto, a position he held for over 30 years. Condie's career as a conductor began in 1956 when he was appointed the conductor of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. Under his leadership, the choir became one of the most respected choral ensembles in Canada. He also served as the conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra's Pops Concerts from 1965 to 1978. One of Condie's most significant achievements was his work on the soundtrack for the 1977 film "Star Wars." He conducted the London Symphony Orchestra and the London Voices choir for the recording of the film's score. The soundtrack went on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Score. Condie was also known for his work with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. He first conducted the choir in 1957 and became the choir's music director in 1959. Under his leadership, the choir's membership grew from 215 to over 300, and their performances became known for their precision and musicality. Condie also led the choir on several international tours, including a tour of Europe in 1967 and a tour of the Soviet Union in 1978. Throughout his career, Condie received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 1971, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada, and in 1983, he was promoted to Companion of the Order of Canada. He also received honorary degrees from several universities, including the University of Alberta, the University of Toronto, and Brigham Young University. Condie retired from his position as music director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in 1990 but continued to conduct and perform until his death in 1996. He was remembered as a talented musician and a dedicated teacher who inspired generations of musicians. In conclusion, Richard Condie was a Canadian conductor, organist, and choir director who made significant contributions to the classical music scene in Canada. He was known for his work with the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra's Pops Concerts, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. He also conducted the London Symphony Orchestra and the London Voices choir for the recording of the soundtrack for "Star Wars." Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music and was remembered as a talented musician and a dedicated teacher.

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