Albert Coates

Full biography Albert Coates

Albert Coates was an English conductor and composer ), known for his work in the early 20th century. He was born on April 23, 1882 in Saint Petersburg, Russia to an English father who was a successful businessman. Coates began studying music at a young age and later attended the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, where he studied conducting under Felix Blumenfeld.

Coates went on to have a successful career as a conductor, working with orchestras in Russia, Germany, and the UK. He was known for his interpretations of the works of Gustav Mahler and Richard Strauss, and was a champion of contemporary music, introducing many new works to audiences during his career.

As a composer, Coates is not as well-known as he was as a conductor. He wrote seven operas, including "Samuel Pepys," which was produced in Munich in 1929. He also wrote some concert works for orchestral forces ), including a symphony and a suite for strings.

Coates' most famous recording is his interpretation of Gustav Holst's "The Planets," which was the first complete recording of the work. The recording, made in 1926, is still considered a classic and is highly regarded among classical music fans.

Coates died on December 11, 1953. His legacy as a conductor and composer is still remembered today, particularly in recordings of his performances and works.