Role

:

Conductor  

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

February 15, 1916 in Erith, Kent, England

Death

:

September 30, 1993

Genre

:

Crossover

 

Ronnie Aldrich was a British pianist, arranger, and conductor who was born on February 15, 1916, in Erith, Kent, England. He was the son of a church organist and began playing the piano at a young age. He attended the Guildhall School of Music in London, where he studied piano, composition, and conducting. After completing his studies, Aldrich began his career as a pianist and arranger for various British dance bands. He quickly gained a reputation for his skill as a pianist and his ability to arrange music for large ensembles. In the 1950s, he became the musical director for the BBC's popular radio program "Strike It Lucky." In the 1960s, Aldrich began recording albums for Decca Records. His first album, "Melody and Percussion for Two Pianos," was released in 1961 and was a commercial success. The album featured Aldrich playing piano duets with his wife, Jean, and included arrangements of popular songs and classical pieces. Aldrich's success continued throughout the 1960s and 1970s with a series of albums that featured his arrangements of popular songs and classical pieces. His albums often featured a large orchestra and a choir, and he became known for his lush, romantic arrangements. One of Aldrich's most successful albums was "The Magnificent Pianos of Ronnie Aldrich," which was released in 1972. The album featured Aldrich playing solo piano arrangements of popular songs and classical pieces. It was a commercial success and helped to establish Aldrich as one of the most popular pianists of his time. Aldrich also had a successful career as a conductor. He conducted the London Festival Orchestra, which he founded in 1967, and recorded a number of albums with the orchestra. He also conducted the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the BBC Concert Orchestra. Throughout his career, Aldrich received numerous awards and honors. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1975 for his services to music. He was also awarded the Gold Badge of Merit by the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors in 1985. Aldrich continued to perform and record music until his death on September 30, 1993, in Isle of Man, at the age of 77. He left behind a legacy of beautiful music and innovative arrangements that continue to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world.

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