William Alwyn, born William Alwyn Smith on November 7, 1905, in Northampton, England, was a distinguished composer, conductor, and music educator who contributed richly to the British classical music tradition throughout the 20th century. Alwyn's compositions were versatile and encompassed various musical genres, including film scores, symphonies, and chamber works. He attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he later became a professor, educating a new generation of musicians.

Alwyn's career as a composer flourished with over seventy film scores to his name, contributing significantly to British cinema through his work on films like "The Fallen Idol" and "Odd Man Out." His concert music, however, remained at the core of his legacy, with his mastery over orchestration and a style that combined romantic lyricism with modern harmonic textures. Notable concert works include his series of string quartets, concerti grossi, piano music, and the opera "Miss Julie," which showcased his nuanced understanding of drama and narrative in music. William Alwyn passed away on September 11, 1985, but his music continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and expressive power, as evidenced by ongoing performances and recordings of his work.

Genres

British Modern Classical

Early Modern Classical

Latest Release

Alwyn: Miss Julie

William Alwyn•

Sakari Oramo•

BBC Symphony Orchestra

Album - 48 Tracks - Released July 1, 2020