Ronnie Hazlehurst

Full biography Ronnie Hazlehurst

Ronald Hazlehurst, more commonly known as Ronnie Hazlehurst, was an English composer and conductor born on March 13, 1928, in Dukinfield, Cheshire, England. He began his career as a freelance arranger and composer for television and radio in the 1960s, before joining the BBC in 1961.

Hazlehurst is best known for composing the theme tunes for numerous British television programmes, including "Are You Being Served?", "The Two Ronnies", "Yes, Minister", "Last of the Summer Wine", "Only Fools and Horses", "As Time Goes By" and "Blankety Blank". Hazlehurst was also the musical director for several popular television shows, including "Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em" and "Last of the Summer Wine".

During his career, Hazlehurst won numerous awards for his work, including the Ivor Novello Award for Best TV Theme in 1986 and 1990, and a BAFTA for his music on the nature documentary series "Life on Earth" in 1985. Hazlehurst retired from the BBC in 199 6, but continued to work as a composer and conductor until his death on October 1, 2007, at the age of 79.

Hazlehurst's contribution to British culture was acknowledged in many obituaries that followed his death. He was revered as a prolific composer and arranger with a natural talent for creating memorable theme tunes. Hazlehurst's unique compositions and arrangements continue to bring enjoyment to TV viewers worldwide and his legacy lives on through his body of work.