Role

:

Composer Conductor Performer

Birth

:

January 4, 1951 in Wells, Somerset, England

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

Ronald Corp is a British conductor, composer, and pianist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on January 4, 1951, in Cape Town, South Africa, Corp grew up in a musical family. His father was a pianist, and his mother was a singer, and they both encouraged him to pursue music from a young age. Corp began his musical education at the age of six, studying piano with his father. He later attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied composition with Herbert Howells and conducting with Sir Adrian Boult. He also studied piano with Cyril Smith and John Lill. After completing his studies, Corp began his career as a conductor, working with various orchestras and choirs in the UK and abroad. He has conducted the London Mozart Players, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the BBC Singers, and the City of London Sinfonia, among others. He has also conducted operas at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and the English National Opera. In addition to his work as a conductor, Corp is also a prolific composer. He has written over 200 works, including operas, choral music, orchestral music, and chamber music. His music has been performed by many leading orchestras and choirs, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and the King's College Choir, Cambridge. Corp has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 1996, he was awarded the Elgar Medal for his services to the music of Edward Elgar. In 2003, he was awarded the Cobbett Medal for his services to chamber music. He has also been awarded honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of Southampton and the University of Hertfordshire. One of the highlights of Corp's career was his appointment as the Artistic Director of the New London Orchestra in 1988. Under his leadership, the orchestra became known for its innovative programming and its commitment to promoting new music. Corp also founded the New London Children's Choir in 1991, which has become one of the leading children's choirs in the UK. Another highlight of Corp's career was his appointment as the Musical Director of the London Chorus in 1994. Under his leadership, the choir performed at many prestigious venues, including the Royal Albert Hall and St. Paul's Cathedral. Corp also founded the Highgate Choral Society in 1996, which has become one of the leading amateur choirs in London. Corp's contributions to classical music have been recognized not only in the UK but also internationally. He has conducted concerts and given masterclasses in many countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan. He has also been a judge for many international music competitions, including the BBC Young Musician of the Year and the International Opera Awards. In addition to his work as a conductor and composer, Corp is also a respected music educator. He has taught at several universities and conservatories, including the Royal College of Music, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and the Royal Academy of Music. He has also written several books on music, including a biography of the composer Edward Elgar. In conclusion, Ronald Corp is a highly respected figure in the world of classical music. His contributions as a conductor, composer, and music educator have been recognized both nationally and internationally.

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