Arthur Somervell

Full biography Arthur Somervell

Arthur Somervell was an English composer and educationalist , born on June 5th, 1863 in Windermere, England. He was widely recognized as one of the most prominent and successful art song writers of his time, second only to Hubert Parry. In addition to his work as a composer, Somervell was also a respected teacher, serving as a professor at the Royal College of Music in London.

Somervell's compositions are primarily for voice , and many of his most famous works are adaptations of poems or literature. He is perhaps best known for his settings of A. E. Housman's A Shropshire Lad, which have remained popular with performers and audiences alike. Somervell was particularly skilled at capturing the emotional depth and nuance of the poetry he set to music, crafting melodies and harmonies that highlighted the beauty and power of the text.

Despite his success as a composer, Somervell remained devoted to his work in education, and was passionate about helping young musicians learn and grow. He was known for his kindness and generosity, and many of his former students remembered him fondly as a mentor and friend.

Somervell passed away on May 2nd, 1937 in London, at the age of 73. Despite the passage of time, his music continues to be celebrated and performed around the world, a testament to the enduring legacy of this talented and dedicated composer.