Robert Saxton

Robert Saxton

Robert Saxton was born on October 8th, 1953

Full Name: Robert Edward Saxton
Nationality: English
Profession: Composer Educator
Notable Work: Chamber music, choral music
Education: Oxford University
Influences: Britten, Shostakovich
Awards: British Composer Award
Teaching: Royal College of Music

A renowned composer and educator, he is most known for his contributions to British contemporary classical music, particularly in the fields of chamber music and opera.

Written by: Emily Carter Emily Carter

Robert Saxton: A British Composer of Renown

Robert Saxton is a British composer acclaimed for his contributions to the world of classical music. Born on October 8, 1953, in London, Saxton has made a name for himself as a talented and versatile composer, with a repertoire that spans orchestral, chamber, and vocal works.

Early Life and Education

Saxton's fascination with music began at a tender age of six, when he started composing. He was educated at Bryanston School, where he received guidance from renowned composers Benjamin Britten and Elisabeth Lutyens. He later pursued his studies at Cambridge and Oxford Universities, where he was mentored by Robin Holloway and Robert Sherlaw Johnson, respectively. Additionally, he had the privilege of studying with Luciano Berio.

Awards and Honors

Saxton's talent was recognized early on, and he was awarded the prestigious Gaudeamus International Composers Award in the Netherlands at the age of 21. In 1986, he received the Fulbright Arts Fellowship to the USA, which allowed him to be in residence at Princeton and assist Oliver Knussen at Tanglewood.

Musical Contributions

Saxton has written numerous works for esteemed institutions, including the BBC TV, Proms, and Radio, LSO, LPO, ECO, London Sinfonietta, Nash Ensemble, Chilingirian Quartet, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival. His compositions have been performed at various festivals, such as Opera North, Aldeburgh, Cheltenham, City of London, Three Choirs, and Lichfield Festivals.

Some of his notable collaborations include working with Stephen Darlington and the choir of Christ Church Cathedral Oxford, Susan Milan, Susan Bradshaw, and Richard Rodney Bennett, Edward Wickham and The Clerks, Teresa Cahill, Leon Fleisher, Clare Hammond, Steven Isserlis, Mstislav Rostropovich, John Wallace, and the Raphael Wallfisch and John York duo.

Teaching and Mentorship

Saxton has shared his knowledge and expertise with generations of musicians. He was Head of Composition at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama from 1991 to 1997 and Head of Composition and Contemporary Music at the Royal Academy of Music from 1998 to 1999. Currently, he is Professor of Composition and Tutorial Fellow in Music at Worcester College, Oxford, and a Trustee of the Mendelssohn Scholarship.

Legacy

Throughout his illustrious career, Saxton has made a significant impact on the world of classical music. His compositions continue to be performed and admired by audiences worldwide. As a teacher, mentor, and composer, he has inspired countless musicians and contributed to the rich cultural heritage of our time.

As a composer, teacher, and mentor, Robert Saxton has left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. His contributions continue to inspire and enrich audiences, ensuring his legacy as a master composer of our time.

Timeline
1953
Born in London
Robert Saxton was born on March 3, 1953, in London, England.
1976
Graduated from Cambridge
Saxton graduated from Cambridge University with a degree in music in 1976.
1983
Composed Hillsborough Memorial Fanfare
He composed the Hillsborough Memorial Fanfare in 1983, a piece to commemorate the Hillsborough disaster.
1994
Became Professor of Composition
Saxton became a Professor of Composition at the Royal College of Music in 1994, a position he still holds today.
2003
Composed Psalm 150
He composed Psalm 150, a choral piece, in 2003, which premiered at the BBC Proms in the Park.
Robert Saxton

Robert Saxton Quiz

What genre of music is Robert Saxton most associated with?

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FAQ
What are Robert Saxtons most famous compositions?
Robert Saxton is renowned for his orchestral works, including Concerto for Orchestra, and chamber music pieces like Fantasia for String Quartet. His music often explores complex harmonies and rhythms.
What is Robert Saxtons role in music education?
As a professor at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Robert Saxton has mentored numerous composers and musicians. He has also served as a juror for several international composition competitions.
What awards has Robert Saxton won?
Robert Saxton has received several awards for his compositions, including the Mendelssohn Scholarship and the Royal Philharmonic Societys Composition Prize.
How does Robert Saxtons music reflect his British heritage?
Robert Saxtons music often incorporates British folk elements and reflects the countrys rich cultural heritage. His works are often performed by British orchestras and chamber groups.
What is Robert Saxtons compositional style?
Robert Saxtons music is characterized by its lyricism, complexity, and attention to detail. He often explores new sounds and techniques, while still maintaining a strong sense of melody and harmony.

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