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Composer Performer

 

David Heath was a British composer and flautist, born on August 16, 1956, in London, England. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a jazz pianist and his mother a singer. Heath began playing the flute at the age of nine and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. He attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied under renowned flautist William Bennett. After completing his studies, Heath began his career as a freelance musician, performing with various orchestras and ensembles. He also began composing his own music, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, including jazz, folk, and world music. Heath's compositions were characterized by their lyrical melodies, intricate harmonies, and use of unconventional instruments. One of Heath's early works was his flute concerto, which he composed in 1980. The piece was well-received and helped establish Heath as a composer to watch. He went on to compose a number of other works for the flute, including sonatas, concertos, and chamber music. In addition to his work as a composer, Heath was also an accomplished flautist. He performed with a number of orchestras and ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the English Chamber Orchestra, and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. He was also a member of the Nash Ensemble, a chamber music group based in London. One of Heath's most notable works was his ballet score for "The Snow Queen," which was commissioned by the Royal Ballet in 1985. The ballet was based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and was choreographed by Kenneth MacMillan. Heath's score was praised for its evocative melodies and use of traditional folk instruments, such as the dulcimer and the hurdy-gurdy. Heath continued to compose throughout the 1990s and 2000s, producing a wide range of works for various ensembles and soloists. One of his most notable works from this period was his "Concerto for Two Flutes," which he composed in 1997. The piece was commissioned by the BBC and was premiered by flautists William Bennett and Michael Cox. In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Heath was also a respected teacher. He taught at the Royal College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where he mentored a new generation of musicians and composers. Sadly, David Heath passed away on October 16, 2018, at the age of 62. He left behind a legacy of beautiful and innovative music, which continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world. His compositions are characterized by their unique blend of classical and folk influences, and his use of unconventional instruments and harmonies. Heath's music is a testament to his talent and creativity, and his contributions to the world of classical music will not be forgotten.

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