The Life and Music of Eric Coates - 9781409434085

Taylor & Francis

Eric Coates (1886-1957) is perhaps the most familiar name associated with British light music, with his memorable tunes including the openings to the BBC's In Town Tonight, Desert Island Discs and The Forsyte Saga as well as the theme from the Dam Busters film. In many ways, Coates' story is the story of British light music, and this study offers a fascinating insight into the heyday and decline of the British light music tradition. Michael Payne provides an indispensable insight into the man and his music. > Eric Coates (1886-1957) is perhaps the most familiar name associated with British light music. Sir Charles Groves said that 'his music crackled with enthusiasm and vitality. He could write tunes and clothe them in the most attractive musical colours'. Coates won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music, and from 1912 to 1919 he was principal viola of the Queen's Hall Orchestra under Sir Henry Wood. He also played under such conductors as Elgar, Delius, Richard Strauss, De.