Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

1950 in United Kingdom

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

John Scott Whiteley is a renowned classical music artist who has made significant contributions to the world of music. He was born on 16th May 1950 in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England. Whiteley grew up in a musical family, and his father was a church organist. He started playing the piano at the age of five and later learned to play the organ. Whiteley's passion for music grew as he got older, and he decided to pursue a career in music. Whiteley attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied organ and piano. He graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1972 and later obtained a Master of Music degree from the same institution. During his time at the Royal College of Music, Whiteley won several awards, including the Walford Davies Prize for Organ Playing and the Limpus Prize for Improvisation. After completing his studies, Whiteley became the assistant organist at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. He later became the organist and master of the choristers at St. Albans Cathedral, where he served for 30 years. During his tenure at St. Albans Cathedral, Whiteley established himself as one of the leading organists in the world. He performed in numerous concerts and recitals, both in the UK and abroad. Whiteley's performances were highly acclaimed, and he received several awards and honors for his contributions to music. In 1984, he was awarded the Royal College of Organists' Limpus Prize for Improvisation. He was also awarded the Royal School of Church Music's Sir Sydney Nicholson Prize for Church Music in 1990. In 1991, he was appointed a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists, and in 1996, he was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music. Whiteley's repertoire includes works by Bach, Handel, Mozart, and other classical composers. He is also known for his improvisational skills, and he has performed numerous improvisations in concerts and recitals. Whiteley has recorded several albums, including "The Organ of St. Albans Cathedral," "The Organ of St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle," and "The Organ of St. Paul's Cathedral, London." In addition to his performances and recordings, Whiteley has also taught music. He has been a visiting professor at several universities, including the University of Michigan, the University of Kansas, and the University of Sydney. He has also given masterclasses and workshops in organ playing and improvisation. Whiteley retired from his position at St. Albans Cathedral in 2011 but continues to perform and teach music. He is currently the organist emeritus at St. Albans Cathedral and is a visiting professor at the Royal College of Music. He also serves as a consultant for organ building and restoration projects. In conclusion, John Scott Whiteley is a highly accomplished classical music artist who has made significant contributions to the world of music. His performances, recordings, and teaching have inspired countless musicians and music lovers around the world. His awards and honors are a testament to his talent and dedication to music, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

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