Date of Birth: January 28, 1944
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Date of Death: November 12, 2013
Biography
Sir John Kenneth Tavener was a British composer known for his extensive body of choral and orchestral works that often explore spiritual and religious themes. Born in London, Tavener was a musical prodigy, beginning his education at Highgate School where he also sang as a chorister at St. Paul’s Cathedral. He later attended the Royal Academy of Music. His early works were heavily influenced by Stravinsky and Messiaen, but Tavener eventually found his unique voice through the lens of spiritual and religious exploration, particularly Eastern Orthodox Christianity, which he converted to in 1977. Tavener’s breakthrough came with “The Whale” (1968), which was premiered by the London Sinfonietta and recorded by The Beatles’ Apple Records. Over the years, his compositions have included opera, chamber music, and large-scale choral works, many of which are noted for their serene, meditative qualities. Some of his most famous pieces include “The Protecting Veil” (1988), “Song for Athene” (1993), and “A New Beginning” (2000), which was commissioned for the millennium celebrations at the Millennium Dome in London. Throughout his life, Tavener battled serious health issues, including a stroke and multiple heart attacks, but he continued to compose until his death in 2013. His music remains a significant part of the contemporary classical repertoire, celebrated for its profound spiritual depth and emotive power.
5 Interesting Facts about John Tavener
1. Tavener was knighted in 2000 for his services to music.
2. His piece “Song for Athene” was performed at the funeral of Princess Diana in 1997.
3. Tavener’s work was often inspired by his deep religious beliefs, particularly after converting to Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
4. “The Protecting Veil” was one of Tavener’s most commercially successful compositions and helped to solidify his reputation internationally.
5. Despite his serene music, Tavener had a tumultuous personal life, including battles with health issues and three marriages.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Tavener
1. “My music is a form of prayer, a mystery.”
2. “Silence is the only language of God; all else is poor translation.”
3. “I’ve always been looking for the sacred, and I’ve found it in different religions and forms.”
4. “I try to write music that brings people to reflection, to silence, to a sense of the infinite.”
5. “I think one of my greatest blessings has been to suffer.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, John Tavener’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
John Tavener had three children: Theodora, Sofia, and Orlando Tavener.
Relevant Links
1. [John Tavener – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Tavener
2. [The Guardian Obituary](https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/nov/12/john-tavener
5. [Gramophone: John Tavener](https://www.gramophone.co.uk/composers/john-tavener-29509
