Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

1860 in Valparaiso, Chile

Death

:

1919 in London, England

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Amy Woodforde-Finden was a British composer and pianist who lived from 1860 to 1919. She was born in Valparaíso, Chile, to British parents, and spent much of her childhood in South America before moving to England at the age of 16. Her father was a successful businessman, and her mother was a talented amateur musician who encouraged Amy's musical interests from a young age. Amy began studying piano and composition with various teachers in England, including the renowned composer and pianist Tobias Matthay. She also studied singing with the famous soprano Emma Albani, and performed as a soloist in concerts and recitals throughout England and Europe. In 1898, Amy published her most famous work, a set of songs called "The Garden of Dreams." The songs were based on poems by the Indian poet Sarojini Naidu, and were inspired by Amy's travels in India. The songs were an immediate success, and were performed by many famous singers of the time, including Nellie Melba and Clara Butt. Amy continued to compose throughout her life, writing songs, piano pieces, and chamber music. She also wrote music for several plays and films, including the 1916 silent film "The Life Story of David Lloyd George." Despite her success as a composer, Amy faced many challenges as a woman in the male-dominated world of classical music. She was often dismissed or ignored by critics and publishers, and struggled to gain recognition for her work. She also faced personal challenges, including the death of her husband in 1910 and her own declining health in her later years. Despite these challenges, Amy remained dedicated to her music and continued to compose until her death in 1919. Her legacy lives on through her music, which continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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