Dudley Simpson

Full biography Dudley Simpson

Dudley Simpson (4 October 1922 - 4 November 2017) was an Australian composer and conductor. He is perhaps best known for his work as an in-house composer for the BBC science-fiction series Doctor Who in the 1960s and 70s, for which he wrote music for around 290 episodes. Simpson was also the Principal Conductor of the Royal Opera House in London from 1973 to 1986 , and worked as a composer for other popular television shows including The Tomorrow People, Blake's 7, The Professionals, and also wrote the theme tune for the series Moonbase 3.

Simpson began his career as a composer in Australia, where he worked on a number of radio shows and television series. He moved to the UK in 1963 and was soon employed by the BBC as an in-house composer, working on a number of drama series before joining the team at Doctor Who. Simpson's work on the show was noted for its innovative use of electronic and concrete sounds, as well as its use of classical music influences.

In addition to his work in television, Simpson was also a respected conductor and composer of more traditional classical music. He conducted numerous orchestras around the world, including the London Symphony Orchestra, and his compositions were performed by ensembles such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Dudley Simpson passed away in 2017 at the age of 95. He left behind a legacy of memorable and influential music that continues to be appreciated by fans of both Doctor Who and classical music alike.