Robert Farnon & His Orchestra was a renowned classical music ensemble that was founded in 1946 by Canadian composer and conductor Robert Farnon. The orchestra was known for its unique blend of classical and popular music, which made it a favorite among audiences around the world. Robert Farnon was born in Toronto, Canada, in 1917. He began his music career as a trumpet player and arranger for various dance bands in the 1930s. In 1940, he moved to England to work for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as a staff arranger and conductor. During his time at the BBC, Farnon became known for his innovative arrangements and compositions, which combined elements of classical music with popular music. In 1946, Farnon formed his own orchestra, which he called the Robert Farnon Orchestra. The ensemble consisted of some of the finest musicians in England, including many who had previously worked with Farnon at the BBC. The orchestra quickly gained a reputation for its virtuosic performances and innovative arrangements, which blended classical and popular music in a way that was both sophisticated and accessible. One of the highlights of the Robert Farnon Orchestra's early career was its performance at the 1949 Royal Command Performance, which was attended by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. The orchestra's performance was a huge success, and it helped to establish Farnon as one of the leading figures in British music. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the Robert Farnon Orchestra continued to perform and record extensively, both in England and abroad. The ensemble's repertoire included a wide range of music, from classical works by composers such as Mozart and Beethoven to popular songs by artists like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. One of the orchestra's most famous recordings was its 1957 album "Journey Into Melody," which featured Farnon's own compositions as well as arrangements of popular songs. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to cement the orchestra's reputation as one of the finest ensembles in the world. In addition to its recordings, the Robert Farnon Orchestra also performed extensively on television and radio. The ensemble was a regular fixture on the BBC's "Friday Night is Music Night" program, and it also appeared on numerous other programs and specials. Over the years, the Robert Farnon Orchestra received many awards and honors for its contributions to music. In 1975, Farnon was awarded the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest honors, for his services to music. The orchestra also received numerous awards for its recordings, including several gold and platinum discs. Despite its many successes, the Robert Farnon Orchestra eventually disbanded in the 1980s, as Farnon retired from active music-making. However, the ensemble's legacy lives on, and its recordings continue to be celebrated by music lovers around the world. In conclusion, Robert Farnon & His Orchestra was a groundbreaking classical music ensemble that blended elements of classical and popular music in a way that was both innovative and accessible. Founded by Canadian composer and conductor Robert Farnon in 1946, the orchestra quickly gained a reputation for its virtuosic performances and innovative arrangements. Over the years, the ensemble performed and recorded extensively, and it received many awards and honors for its contributions to music.

More....