Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

1946 in Swansea, Glamorgan, Wales

Period

:

Contemporary

Genre

:

Chamber

 

John Metcalf is a Welsh composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on November 5, 1946, in Swansea, Wales, Metcalf grew up in a musical family. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a singer. Metcalf started playing the piano at a young age and showed a keen interest in music from an early age. Metcalf studied music at the University of Wales, Cardiff, where he received a Bachelor of Music degree in 1968. He then went on to study composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he was awarded a scholarship. During his time at the Royal Academy of Music, Metcalf studied under the tutelage of Sir Lennox Berkeley, a renowned composer of the 20th century. Metcalf's early works were influenced by the minimalist movement, which was popular in the 1960s and 1970s. His compositions during this period were characterized by repetitive patterns and simple harmonies. However, as he matured as a composer, Metcalf's style evolved, and he began to incorporate more complex harmonies and rhythms into his works. One of Metcalf's most significant works is his opera, "Under Milk Wood," which is based on the play of the same name by Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. The opera premiered in 1988 and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. The music in "Under Milk Wood" is a fusion of classical and popular styles, reflecting Metcalf's eclectic musical tastes. Another notable work by Metcalf is his "String Quartet No. 2," which was commissioned by the BBC and premiered in 1991. The piece is a tribute to the Welsh landscape and is characterized by its use of folk melodies and intricate harmonies. Metcalf has also composed several works for orchestra, including "The Silver Chanter," which was commissioned by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and premiered in 2002. The piece is inspired by the Scottish bagpipe and features a solo bagpiper accompanied by the orchestra. In addition to his work as a composer, Metcalf has also been involved in music education. He has taught at several universities, including the University of Wales, Cardiff, and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. He has also served as the artistic director of the Vale of Glamorgan Festival, a contemporary music festival held annually in Wales. Metcalf's contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2008, he was awarded the Glyndŵr Award for an Outstanding Contribution to the Arts in Wales. He was also appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2010 New Year Honours for services to music. In conclusion, John Metcalf is a Welsh composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His works are characterized by their eclectic style, incorporating elements of classical, folk, and popular music. Metcalf's contributions to music education and his work as the artistic director of the Vale of Glamorgan Festival have also had a significant impact on the music community in Wales and beyond.

More....