Malcolm Arnold

Date of Birth: October 21, 1921

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: September 23, 2006

Biography

Sir Malcolm Arnold was a prolific English composer, born on October 21, 1921, in Northampton, England. He showed musical promise from a young age, quickly becoming proficient on the trumpet. Arnold attended the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied composition and trumpet, launching a dual career as both a performer and a composer. Arnold’s early career was dominated by his role as principal trumpet with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. However, his passion for composition soon took center stage. He composed a wide variety of works, including nine symphonies, concertos, ballets, operas, and a multitude of chamber music. His music is characterized by its accessibility, tunefulness, and often a sense of humor. Arnold’s film scores were also highly acclaimed, with his work on “The Bridge on the River Kwai” (1957) earning him an Academy Award. Throughout his career, Arnold received numerous accolades, including a knighthood in 1993 for his contributions to music. Despite his professional success, Arnold’s life was not without personal struggles, including battles with alcoholism and mental health issues. He passed away on September 23, 2006, in Norwich, England, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that continues to be celebrated worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Malcolm Arnold

1. Malcolm Arnold won an Academy Award for the score of “The Bridge on the River Kwai” in 1957.

2. He was knighted in 1993 for his services to music.

3. Arnold composed the official theme for the Commonwealth Games in 1970.

4. He was an accomplished trumpet player and performed with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

5. Arnold struggled with mental health issues and was a patient at several psychiatric hospitals throughout his life.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Malcolm Arnold

1. “Music is the social act of communication among people, a gesture of friendship, the strongest there is.”

2. “I want to make music that people can enjoy. If they don’t enjoy it, then I have failed.”

3. “To be creative means to be in love with life. You can be creative only if you love life enough that you want to enhance its beauty.”

4. “Every symphony should have a special quality, something unique to say.”

5. “I have to be alone very often. I’d be quite happy if I spent from Saturday night until Monday morning alone in my apartment. That’s how I refuel.”