John Pickard

Full biography John Pickard

John Pickard is a British composer born in 1963, known for his powerful and evocative music that often references his love of nature and landscapes. He was educated at the University of Birmingham where he studied with composer John Joubert and later completed a PhD in composition under the supervision of Peter Dickinson.

Pickard's works have been performed and broadcast around the world by leading ensembles including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. He has also been commissioned by numerous organizations, such as the BBC, The Nash Ensemble, and the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival.

His music often explores vast sonic landscapes, drawing inspiration from elements of the natural world, such as in his orchestral work "Sea-Change," which evokes the tumultuous power of the ocean. Another significant work is his symphony "Gaia Symphony," which reflects on the human relationship with the planet and its fragile environment.

Pickard has also written extensively for brass and wind bands, as well as chamber ensembles and solo instruments. His works for the brass band genre are particularly notable, and have been championed by leading brass bands around the world.

Throughout his career, Pickard has been recognized for his contribution to contemporary classical music, receiving numerous awards and honours, including the Royal Philharmonic Society Award for Large-Scale Composition in 2007. He is currently a professor of composition at the University of Bristol, where he continues to inspire generations of young composers and musicians.