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Raymond Hanson was an Australian composer who was born on 16th June 1913 in Sydney, Australia. He was the youngest of three children born to his parents, who were both music teachers. His father, William Hanson, was a violinist and conductor, while his mother, Florence, was a pianist and teacher. From a young age, Raymond showed a keen interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of four. Hanson's parents recognized his musical talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. He began studying the piano with his mother and later with Winifred Burston, a well-known Australian pianist. He also studied composition with Alfred Hill, a prominent Australian composer, and conductor. In 1931, Hanson was awarded a scholarship to study at the Royal College of Music in London. He studied composition with Ralph Vaughan Williams and conducting with Malcolm Sargent. While in London, he also attended concerts and operas, which greatly influenced his musical style. After completing his studies in London, Hanson returned to Australia and began his career as a composer and conductor. He worked as a music teacher and conductor in various schools and colleges in Sydney. In 1940, he was appointed as the conductor of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, a position he held for ten years. Hanson's compositions were influenced by his experiences in London and his love for Australian landscapes and culture. He was particularly interested in the music of indigenous Australians and incorporated elements of their music into his compositions. One of Hanson's most famous works is his Symphony No. 2, which he composed in 1949. The symphony is often referred to as the "Elegiac" symphony and is dedicated to the memory of his brother, who died in World War II. The symphony is a reflection on the tragedy of war and the loss of life. It is a powerful and emotional work that has been performed by orchestras around the world. Another notable work by Hanson is his Piano Concerto, which he composed in 1951. The concerto is a virtuosic work that showcases the technical abilities of the soloist. It is a lively and energetic work that has become a staple of the piano concerto repertoire. Hanson also composed a number of works for chamber ensembles, including his String Quartet No. 2, which he composed in 1953. The quartet is a complex and intricate work that explores the possibilities of the string quartet form. It is a challenging work that has been performed by some of the world's leading string quartets. In addition to his work as a composer, Hanson was also a respected conductor. He conducted many of his own works as well as works by other composers. He was particularly interested in promoting the music of Australian composers and conducted many premieres of their works. Hanson's contributions to Australian music were recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 1965, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his services to music. He was also awarded the Australian Music Centre's Don Banks Music Award in 1985. Hanson continued to compose and conduct until his death on 26th March 1976. His legacy as a composer and conductor continues to be celebrated in Australia and around the world. His works are performed regularly by orchestras and chamber ensembles, and his influence on Australian music continues to be felt today.

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