Role

:

Conductor Performer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

June 17, 1924 in Birmingham, England

Death

:

July 10, 2009 in Zürich, Switzerland

Genre

:

Opera

 

Edward Downes was a renowned British conductor and musicologist who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on June 17, 1924, in Birmingham, England, Downes showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of four. He later studied at the Birmingham School of Music and the Royal College of Music in London, where he specialized in conducting. Downes began his career as a conductor in the early 1950s, working with various orchestras in the UK and Europe. He quickly gained a reputation for his exceptional musical talent and was soon invited to conduct some of the world's most prestigious orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Vienna State Opera. One of Downes' most significant achievements was his tenure as the principal conductor of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra from 1980 to 1991. During his time with the orchestra, he led numerous successful tours and recordings, including a critically acclaimed performance of Mahler's Symphony No. 8. Downes was also known for his expertise in the music of Russian composers, particularly Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev. He conducted many of their works throughout his career, including Tchaikovsky's ballets Swan Lake and The Nutcracker and Prokofiev's operas War and Peace and The Love for Three Oranges. In addition to his work as a conductor, Downes was also a respected musicologist and author. He wrote several books on the history of music, including The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians, which is considered one of the most comprehensive reference works in the field. Throughout his career, Downes received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 1991, he was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music, and in 1996, he was made a Knight Bachelor for his contributions to the arts. Despite his many achievements, Downes' life was not without its challenges. In 2009, he and his wife, Joan, both in their 80s, chose to end their lives together at a Swiss clinic. They had been married for 54 years and had decided to end their lives due to their declining health and the fear of becoming a burden on their family. Edward Downes' legacy in the world of classical music is one of exceptional talent and dedication. His contributions as a conductor, musicologist, and author have left an indelible mark on the field, and his passion for music will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers for years to come.

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