Florence Aylward

Full biography Florence Aylward

Florence Aylward (1862-1950) was an English composer of popular songs, ballads, and art songs of the late 19th and early 20th century. She started composing at a young age and began to gain recognition after earning a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music where she studied under Sir George Grove.

Aylward's output included over 180 works, with many of her songs being set to texts by well-known poets such as Christina Rossetti and Rudyard Kipling. Her best-known works include "The Year's at the Spring", "Vainly", and "Farewell, Sweetheart".

Aylward's music was often characterized as being sentimental, romantic, and accessible to a wide audience. While her works were considered lightweight by some critics, they were popular and well-received during her lifetime.

In addition to her music, Aylward was also recognized for her philanthropic work, working with institutions and organizations to benefit the education and welfare of disadvantaged children and young people.

Aylward was part of a small but significant group of female composers during her time. Her works were performed and recorded by notable artists of the time, including Dame Nellie Melba, and can still be heard today in concerts and recordings.

Overall, Florence Aylward was a talented and prolific composer, whose contributions to the English art song repertoire of the late 19th and early 20th centuries are still appreciated today.