Ralph Vaughan Williams

Date of Birth: October 12, 1872

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: August 26, 1958

Biography

Ralph Vaughan Williams was an influential English composer born on October 12, 1872, in Down Ampney, Gloucestershire, England. He was a central figure in the resurgence of British music in the early 20th century, known for his symphonies, chamber music, opera, choral music, and film scores. After studying at the Royal College of Music and Trinity College, Cambridge, Vaughan Williams delved into English folk music, which greatly influenced his compositions. He collected and preserved numerous folk songs, incorporating their styles into his works. Vaughan Williams’ compositions are characterized by their lyrical melodies, innovative harmonies, and rich textures. Notable works include “The Lark Ascending,” “Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis,” and his nine symphonies. He also made significant contributions to church music with hymns such as “For All the Saints.” Throughout his life, Vaughan Williams was dedicated to teaching and promoting music education. He served as a professor at the Royal College of Music and was an active conductor and lecturer. His legacy endures through his extensive body of work and his influence on subsequent generations of composers.

5 Interesting Facts about Ralph Vaughan Williams

1. Vaughan Williams served as a medical orderly and later as an artillery officer in World War I, which deeply impacted his music.

2. He was a lifelong friend of fellow composer Gustav Holst, with whom he shared many ideas and critiques.

3. Vaughan Williams was a passionate advocate for amateur music-making and worked extensively with community choirs and orchestras.

4. He was married twice, first to Adeline Fisher and later to Ursula Wood after Adeline’s death.

5. Despite his Anglican background, Vaughan Williams was an agnostic and often explored spiritual and humanistic themes in his music.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ralph Vaughan Williams

1. “Music did not reveal itself to me all at once; it came to me gradually, with intervals of blankness.”

2. “The art of music above all the other arts is the expression of the soul of a nation.”

3. “I believe that all art is an end in itself; the aesthetic justification of a work of art is sufficient.”

4. “In the next world, I shan’t be doing music, with all the striving and disappointments. I shall be being it.”

5. “A composer’s duty is to express the spirit of his country and his time.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ralph Vaughan Williams’ highest net worth is not precisely documented, but as a successful composer, his estate was valued significantly due to royalties and his extensive body of work.