John McCabe

Full biography John McCabe

John McCabe (1939-2015) was a celebrated English composer and pianist who left a lasting impact on the world of classical music. He was born in Liverpool and began playing the piano at an early age. He went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music, where he gained a reputation for his exceptional talent as both a performer and composer.

Over the course of his career, McCabe wrote more than 200 works, including numerous concertos, ballets, operas, and orchestral pieces. He was especially known for his interpretations of 20th century music, particularly that of English composers. McCabe was also a skilled pianist, and he often performed his own works as well as those of other composers.

Several notable composers, including Richard Rodney Bennett and George Benjamin , wrote solos and concertos for McCabe, who was widely respected for his masterful performances and interpretations. He also specialised in the works of American composer John Corigliano, and he performed the UK premiere of Corigliano's Piano Concerto.

One of McCabe's most famous works is the ballet "Edward II", which premiered in 1987 and was based on Christopher Marlowe's play of the same name. He also wrote a children's opera based on C. S. Lewis's "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" and numerous other works for stage and screen.

McCabe was widely respected for his dedication to his craft and his tireless work ethic. He continued to compose and perform well into his later years, even after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2014. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of stunning musical works and performances that continue to inspire and delight audiences today.