A renowned conductor and scholar, he was a leading interpreter of British music, particularly the works of Vaughan Williams, Delius, and Holst, and founded the City of London Sinfonia.
Richard Hickox was a renowned English conductor, widely recognized for his exceptional work in choral, orchestral, and operatic music. He was a master of his craft, leaving an indelible mark on the music world through his numerous performances, recordings, and contributions to various music organizations.
Born on March 5, 1948, in Stokenchurch, Buckinghamshire, Hickox was raised in a musical family. He attended the Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe, from 1959 to 1966, and later studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London from 1966 to 1967. Hickox then became an organ scholar at Queens' College, Cambridge, from 1967 to 1970.
In 1967, while his father was Vicar of Wooburn, Buckinghamshire, Hickox founded the Wooburn Festival, an annual event featuring music, drama, and visual arts. He became the festival's president and played a significant role in its development. The festival still takes place today, showcasing the talent of local and international artists.
Hickox founded the City of London Sinfonia in 1971 and remained its music director until his passing in 2008. He also established the Richard Hickox Singers and Orchestra in the same year. The Richard Hickox Singers collaborated with Kate Bush on her album Hounds of Love, performing the Georgian folk song "Tsintskaro" in the song "Hello Earth."
Hickox was appointed Artistic Director of the St. Endellion Festival in 1972, a position he held until his death in 2008. He expanded the festival, attracting renowned musicians and introducing an Easter Festival during Holy Week in 1974. Additionally, he served as Artistic Director of the Bradford Festival Choral Society from 1978 to 1982.
In 1972, Hickox became the organist and master of music at St. Margaret's, Westminster, the church of the Houses of Parliament. He later took on the directorship of the London Symphony Chorus in 1976.
Hickox received several awards and honors for his contributions to music, including a Grammy nomination for his recording of Britten's War Requiem. He was also appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2002.
Richard Hickox's untimely passing on November 23, 2008, was met with an outpouring of tributes from the music world. He left behind a legacy of exceptional music, inspiring generations of musicians and music lovers alike. His son, Adam Hickox, continues his father's work, conducting the St. Endellion Easter Festival in 2024.
"Music is a powerful force that can bring people together and transcend boundaries. It's a privilege to be able to share that with others." - Richard Hickox
Hickox's passion for music and his unwavering dedication to his craft continue to inspire and influence musicians and music enthusiasts today.
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