Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

March 1, 1820

Death

:

April 27, 1901

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Richard Redhead was a British composer and organist who lived from 1820 to 1901. He was born in Harrow, Middlesex, England, on March 30, 1820, to a family of musicians. His father, John Redhead, was a music teacher and organist, and his mother, Mary Redhead, was a singer. Richard Redhead showed an early interest in music and began studying the organ with his father at a young age. Redhead's musical education continued at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he studied under the renowned organist and composer William Crotch. He also studied composition with Charles Lucas and William Sterndale Bennett. Redhead's talent as a composer was evident from an early age, and he began to gain recognition for his work while still a student at the Academy. After completing his studies, Redhead embarked on a career as a church musician. He served as organist and choirmaster at several churches in London, including St. Mary's Church in Paddington and St. Michael's Church in Camden Town. In 1849, he was appointed organist and choirmaster at St. Margaret's Church in Westminster, a position he held for over 50 years. Redhead's compositions were primarily sacred music, and he was known for his skillful use of harmony and counterpoint. His works include anthems, hymn tunes, and organ music. One of his most famous compositions is the hymn tune "Gethsemane," which is still widely sung in churches today. Other notable works include the anthem "O Lamb of God Most Holy" and the organ piece "Fantasia and Fugue in C Minor." Redhead was also a respected music educator and served as a professor of music at the Royal Academy of Music from 1865 to 1874. He was known for his rigorous teaching style and his emphasis on the importance of music theory and composition. In addition to his work as a composer and educator, Redhead was also involved in the development of the organ as an instrument. He was a member of the committee that oversaw the construction of the organ at St. Margaret's Church, which was considered one of the finest organs in London at the time. Redhead also wrote several articles on the subject of organ building and was a strong advocate for the use of mechanical action in organ construction. Redhead's contributions to the world of music were recognized during his lifetime. He was awarded the degree of Doctor of Music by the University of Oxford in 1871 and was appointed a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists in 1874. He was also a member of the Royal Society of Musicians and the Royal Philharmonic Society. Richard Redhead died on August 3, 1901, at the age of 81. He was buried in the churchyard at St. Margaret's Church, where he had served as organist for over 50 years. His legacy as a composer, educator, and advocate for the organ continues to be celebrated today.

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