Grace Williams

Full biography Grace Williams

Grace Williams (1906-1977) was a Welsh composer who is widely regarded as one of Wales' most notable female composers. She was the first Welsh composer to write a symphony, and her work has received international recognition for its beauty and depth. Williams studied music at the Royal College of Music in London before returning to Wales in the late 1930s.

During her career, Williams wrote music for a variety of settings, including orchestral works, chamber music, choral pieces, and music for film and television. She was particularly interested in Welsh music and folklore and incorporated these elements into many of her compositions. Her music is often characterized by its lyrical beauty, rich harmonies, and intricate textures.

Notable works by Williams include her two symphonies, which were groundbreaking in their use of Welsh folk melodies and themes. She also wrote several chamber works, including a violin sonata and a piano quintet. In addition to her composing, Williams was also involved in teaching, writing, and broadcasting, and she served as a mentor to many younger composers.

Despite her significant contributions to the world of music, Williams' music remained largely overlooked for many years after her death. However, there has been a recent resurgence of interest in her work, and her music is now receiving the recognition it deserves. Today, she is remembered as a trailblazer for Welsh music and a pioneering voice in the world of classical composition.