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Hamish McCunn was a Scottish composer who lived from 1868 to 1916. He was born in Greenock, a town on the west coast of Scotland, and showed an early interest in music. His father was a church organist, and McCunn began playing the piano and organ at a young age. He also showed an interest in composition, and began writing music while still in his teens. McCunn studied music at the Royal College of Music in London, where he was a student of Charles Villiers Stanford. He also studied in Germany, where he was influenced by the music of Richard Wagner. McCunn's early works show the influence of Wagner, with their lush harmonies and dramatic orchestration. McCunn's first major success came in 1894, when his overture "The Land of the Mountain and the Flood" was performed at the Crystal Palace in London. The piece was inspired by the Scottish landscape, and became an instant hit. It remains one of McCunn's most popular works, and is still frequently performed today. In the years that followed, McCunn continued to compose music that was inspired by his Scottish heritage. He wrote several works for orchestra, including the "Scottish Rhapsody" and the "Highland Memories Suite." He also wrote several operas, including "Jeanie Deans," which was based on the novel "The Heart of Midlothian" by Sir Walter Scott. McCunn's music was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and he became one of the most popular composers of his time. His music was often performed at the Proms, a series of concerts held in London each summer, and he was awarded the Gold Medal of the Royal Philharmonic Society in 1904. Despite his success, McCunn struggled with health problems throughout his life. He suffered from tuberculosis, and was forced to spend long periods of time in sanatoriums. He also suffered from depression, and his mental health deteriorated in the years leading up to his death. McCunn died in 1916, at the age of 48. His music fell out of fashion in the years that followed, but has recently experienced a revival. His works are now being performed more frequently, and are being recognized for their beauty and originality. In conclusion, Hamish McCunn was a Scottish composer who was inspired by his country's landscape and heritage. He wrote music that was lush and dramatic, and was influenced by the music of Richard Wagner. His most famous work, "The Land of the Mountain and the Flood," remains popular to this day. Despite struggling with health problems and depression, McCunn was a successful composer who was recognized for his talent during his lifetime. His music is now being rediscovered and appreciated by a new generation of listeners.

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