Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Birth

:

1917 in Malton, Yorkshire

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

Francis Jackson was a renowned British composer and organist who was born on October 2, 1917, in Malton, North Yorkshire, England. He was the youngest of three children born to his parents, who were both amateur musicians. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a pianist. Jackson's musical talent was evident from a young age, and he began playing the piano and organ at the age of six. Jackson's musical education began at the age of eight when he became a chorister at York Minster. He received his early musical training from Dr. Edward Bairstow, the organist and choirmaster at the Minster. Bairstow recognized Jackson's talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Jackson continued his education at the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied composition with Ralph Vaughan Williams and organ with George Thalben-Ball. After completing his studies, Jackson returned to York Minster as an assistant organist. He was appointed as the organist and master of the choristers in 1946, a position he held for 36 years until his retirement in 1982. During his tenure at the Minster, Jackson was responsible for the music at all the major services, including the daily services, weddings, and funerals. He also conducted the choir and played the organ for many concerts and recordings. Jackson's compositions are primarily choral and organ music, and he is best known for his hymn tunes and anthems. His style is characterized by its clarity, simplicity, and elegance. Jackson's music is often described as "English," with its use of traditional harmonies and melodies. His works are widely performed and recorded, and he is considered one of the most important British composers of the 20th century. One of Jackson's most famous works is his setting of the Evening Canticles in G. This piece is a setting of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, which are the two main canticles used in the Anglican Church's Evening Prayer service. Jackson's setting is known for its simplicity and beauty, and it has become a staple of the Anglican choral repertoire. Another notable work by Jackson is his anthem "O Sacrum Convivium." This piece is a setting of a Latin text that is often used during the Eucharist. Jackson's setting is characterized by its soaring melodies and lush harmonies, and it has become a favorite of choirs around the world. In addition to his choral music, Jackson was also a prolific composer of organ music. His organ works are known for their technical brilliance and their ability to showcase the full range of the instrument. One of his most famous organ works is his "Toccata, Chorale, and Fugue," which is a virtuosic piece that has become a favorite of organists around the world. Throughout his career, Jackson received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to music. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1965 and was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1982. He was also awarded honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of York and the University of Durham. In addition to his work as a composer and organist, Jackson was also a respected music educator. He taught at the Royal College of Music and was a visiting professor at several universities in the United States. He was also a frequent lecturer and adjudicator at music festivals and competitions. Jackson continued to compose and perform music well into his 90s.

More....