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Lucie Pankhurst was a British composer who was born on May 22, 1979, in London, England. She grew up in a family of musicians, with her mother being a pianist and her father a cellist. From a young age, Pankhurst showed a keen interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of four. She later learned to play the violin and the cello. Pankhurst attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she studied composition under the tutelage of Sir Harrison Birtwistle. She also studied with other notable composers such as Judith Weir and Julian Anderson. During her time at the academy, Pankhurst won several awards for her compositions, including the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society Composition Prize. Pankhurst's music is characterized by its intricate harmonies and use of unconventional instruments. She often incorporates electronic elements into her compositions, creating a unique and modern sound. Her works have been performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic. One of Pankhurst's most notable works is her opera, "The Raven Girl," which premiered at the Royal Opera House in London in 2013. The opera is based on a fairy tale by Audrey Niffenegger and tells the story of a girl who is half-human and half-raven. The music is haunting and atmospheric, with Pankhurst's use of electronic elements adding to the otherworldly feel of the piece. Another notable work by Pankhurst is her "Concerto for Viola and Orchestra," which was commissioned by the London Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 2016. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the viola, with Pankhurst's use of unconventional harmonies and rhythms adding to the excitement of the piece. Pankhurst's music has been praised for its originality and emotional depth. She has been compared to other contemporary composers such as Thomas Adès and Kaija Saariaho. Her works have been performed at major music festivals around the world, including the BBC Proms and the Aldeburgh Festival. In addition to her work as a composer, Pankhurst is also a respected music educator. She has taught composition at the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music in London. She has also given masterclasses and workshops at universities and conservatories around the world. Sadly, Lucie Pankhurst passed away on August 4, 2021, at the age of 42. Her death was a great loss to the world of classical music, but her legacy lives on through her music and the many students she inspired during her career. Pankhurst's contributions to the world of contemporary classical music will be remembered for years to come.

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