Main content

Frederick Delius

Donald Macleod charts the life and music of Frederick Delius whose uncompromising artistic vision was matched only by the tragedy of his final years of illness.

The life and music of Frederick Delius whose uncompromising artistic vision was matched only by the tragedy of his final years of illness.

Donald Macleod begins by exploring Delius's early compositional influences, from the sounds of Florida's orange groves to the buzzing cafe culture of Paris in the 1890s.

Next, he considers Delius's passion for Scandinavian landscape, culture and music, charting the composer's deep friendship with Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and how a 16-year-old Peter Warlock came to play a significant role in Delius's career.

Next, the collaboration between Delius and the eccentric and ebullient composer Percy Grainger who, in spite of their contrasting characters, formed a close bond through their shared love of freedom, landscape and wild beauty.

Donald Macleod then charts the influence of one of Delius's greatest champions as interpreter, editor and impresario - the conductor Thomas Beecham.

Finally, he explores Delius's final years, when chronic illness would have put an end to his work but for the selfless help given by his assistant Eric Fenby.

Release date:

Duration:

53 minutes

Credits

Role Contributor
Composer Frederick Delius