Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1883

Death

:

1973

 

William Henry Harris was a British composer and organist, born on March 28, 1883, in Fulham, London. He was the youngest of six children born to William Henry Harris and his wife, Mary Ann. Harris showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He later learned to play the organ and became a chorister at St. George's Church in Hanover Square, London. Harris received his formal education at the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied under Charles Villiers Stanford and Walter Parratt. He was awarded the prestigious Mendelssohn Scholarship in 1906, which allowed him to study in Germany with Max Reger and Karl Straube. Harris returned to England in 1908 and was appointed organist and choirmaster at St. Augustine's Church in Kilburn, London. In 1919, Harris was appointed organist and choirmaster at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, a position he held until his retirement in 1961. During his tenure at St. George's Chapel, Harris composed a number of works for the choir, including anthems, canticles, and hymns. He also wrote a number of organ pieces, including his famous "Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis." Harris was a prolific composer, and his works were widely performed during his lifetime. His music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and use of modal scales. He was particularly influenced by the music of the English Renaissance, and his compositions often reflect this influence. One of Harris's most famous works is his anthem "Faire is the Heaven," which was composed in 1925. The piece is a setting of a poem by Edmund Spenser and is known for its soaring melodies and lush harmonies. Another well-known work is his anthem "Bring Us, O Lord God," which was composed in 1959. The piece is a setting of a prayer by John Donne and is known for its haunting beauty and sense of introspection. Harris also composed a number of works for the organ, including his "Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis," which was composed in 1933. The piece is a virtuosic tour de force that showcases Harris's skill as an organist and composer. Another notable work for the organ is his "Prelude in E Flat," which was composed in 1943. The piece is a lively and joyful work that is often performed at weddings and other celebratory occasions. In addition to his work as a composer, Harris was also a respected organist and conductor. He was a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists and served as president of the Royal School of Church Music from 1955 to 1961. He was also a member of the Order of the British Empire, having been awarded the honor in 1953. Harris died on September 6, 1973, at the age of 90. His legacy as a composer and musician lives on, and his works continue to be performed and admired by musicians and audiences around the world.

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