Colin Brumby

Full biography Colin Brumby

Colin James Brumby (18 June 1933 - 3 January 2018) was a renowned and prolific Australian composer and conductor. He was born in Melbourne, Australia, and showed an early talent for music, playing the piano and clarinet from a young age. He later studied composition at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, where he was taught by some of Australia's leading composers, including Dorian Le Gallienne and George Tibbits.

Over his long career, Brumby composed over 200 works in a wide variety of genres, including orchestral music, chamber music, opera, and music for film and television. He was particularly known for his contributions to the Australian music scene, including his work with the Brisbane-based contemporary music ensemble "Topology", and his role as a teacher at the University of Queensland's School of Music.

Brumby was also a prolific writer for the stage, with a particular focus on children's operettas. Some of his most famous works in this genre include "The Wise Little Hen" and "The Magic Pudding". In addition to his work as a composer, Brumby was also a highly regarded conductor, leading many of Australia's major symphony orchestras and music festivals.

Brumby's compositions were often inspired by his travels, and he drew heavily on the landscapes and cultures of the places he visited. For example, one of his best-known works, the "Viola Concerto: Tre aspetti di Roma", was inspired by the sights and sounds of Rome, and is considered one of his greatest achievements.

Sadly, Colin Brumby passed away on January 3, 2018 at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy as one of Australia's most celebrated composers and conductors. His work continues to be performed and celebrated by musicians and music lovers around the world.