Episode Details
Back to EpisodesFrancis Routh: The English Composer Who Championed Contemporary British Music
Description
In this episode of pplpod, we explore the life and legacy of Francis Routh (1927–2021), a prolific English composer and author whose influence spanned six decades of classical music history.
Join us as we discuss Routh’s musical journey, from his studies at the Royal Academy of Music to his distinctive chromatic-tonal style found in major works like the massive Sacred Tetralogy for organ and The Well Tempered Pianist. We also dive into his vital role as a promoter of new music through the founding of the Redcliffe Concerts, a series that championed underrepresented British talent—including Samuel Wesley and the Tippett generation—for over 20 years.
Tune in to learn how Routh’s work as a teacher, editor, and founder of Redcliffe Records helped shape the landscape of contemporary British music.