Victor Hely-Hutchinson

Full biography Victor Hely-Hutchinson

Christian Victor Noel Hope Hely-Hutchinson was a British composer , conductor, pianist, and music administrator, born on December 26, 1901, in Cape Town, South Africa. His father, Sir Walter Francis Hely-Hutchinson, was a governor of the Cape Colony and his mother, Lady Beatrice Hely-Hutchinson, was an accomplished musician.

As a child, Victor showed a great interest in music and was trained by his mother. He went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he trained as a composer and pianist. After graduating, he performed as a piano accompanist for various singers and instrumentalists and became associated with the Bach Choir and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Victor Hely-Hutchinson's compositions ranged from solo piano pieces to works for full orchestra. He is most well-known for his A Carol Symphony, which was written in 1927 and has become a classic of the Christmas music repertoire. Other notable works include his Piano Concerto in B-flat major, three piano sonatas, and several songs and chamber works.

In addition to his work as a composer, Victor Hely-Hutchinson also served as a music administrator, holding various positions such as the Director of Music for the BBC in Scotland and the General Manager of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. He was also active in writing program notes for theatrical plays and musical performances.

Victor Hely-Hutchinson passed away on March 11, 1947, at the young age of 45, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful compositions and a lasting impact on the British classical music scene.