Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

October 29, 1888 in London, England

Death

:

November 28, 1976 in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

Harold Darke was a British composer, organist, and conductor who was born on October 29, 1888, in London, England. He was the son of a church organist and began his musical education at an early age. Darke's father was his first teacher, and he later studied at the Royal College of Music in London. Darke's musical career began as an organist, and he held several positions throughout his life. He was the organist at St. Michael's Church in Cornhill, London, from 1916 to 1929, and then at St. James's Church in Piccadilly from 1929 until his death in 1976. He was also the conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra from 1949 to 1951. Darke's compositions were primarily choral and organ music, and he was known for his skillful use of harmony and counterpoint. His most famous work is the setting of the hymn "In the Bleak Midwinter," which is still widely performed today. Other notable works include his "Communion Service in F," "Requiem," and "Evening Service in F." Darke's music was heavily influenced by the English choral tradition, and he was a master of the Anglican choral style. His compositions were often performed in churches and cathedrals throughout England, and he was highly regarded by his contemporaries. In addition to his work as a composer and organist, Darke was also a respected music educator. He taught at the Royal College of Music and was a professor of music at the University of London. He was also a fellow of the Royal College of Organists and the Royal Society of Arts. Darke's legacy as a composer and musician continues to be celebrated today. His music is still performed in churches and concert halls around the world, and his influence on the English choral tradition is still felt today. He is remembered as a master of harmony and counterpoint, and his contributions to the world of classical music will not be forgotten.

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