Role

:

Conductor

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Choral

 

Maurice Handford was a renowned British conductor who made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. He was born on 5th May 1928 in London, England. Handford's parents were both musicians, and he grew up in a musical environment. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist. Handford showed an interest in music from a young age and began playing the piano at the age of five. Handford attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he studied conducting under Sir Adrian Boult. He also studied composition under Lennox Berkeley and conducting under Igor Markevitch. After completing his studies, Handford began his career as a conductor, working with various orchestras in the UK. In 1958, Handford was appointed as the conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. He held this position for 13 years and helped to establish the orchestra as one of the leading orchestras in the UK. During his tenure, Handford conducted many notable performances, including the UK premiere of Shostakovich's Symphony No. 14. In 1971, Handford was appointed as the principal conductor of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. He held this position for 11 years and helped to establish the orchestra as one of the leading orchestras in the world. During his tenure, Handford conducted many notable performances, including the world premiere of Peter Maxwell Davies' Symphony No. 6. Handford was also a regular guest conductor with many other orchestras around the world. He conducted the London Symphony Orchestra, the Philharmonia Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, among others. Handford was known for his interpretations of the works of Gustav Mahler, and he conducted many performances of Mahler's symphonies throughout his career. He was also known for his interpretations of the works of Benjamin Britten, and he conducted many performances of Britten's operas and orchestral works. Handford was the recipient of many awards and honors throughout his career. In 1977, he was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music. In 1986, he was awarded the Gold Medal of the Royal Philharmonic Society, one of the highest honors in classical music. He was also awarded honorary doctorates from the University of Liverpool and the University of Bournemouth. Handford retired from conducting in 1994 due to ill health. He passed away on 10th September 1996, at the age of 68. Handford's contribution to the world of classical music was significant, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world.

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