Composer
George Malcolm was an exceptionally versatile British musician renowned for his impact across several musical disciplines, especially in the world of sacred and Baroque music. His career highlights include significant contributions as a harpsichordist, pianist, organist, conductor, choirmaster, and composer. He was known for his performances of Baroque music, not for creating interpretations of Bach's pieces.
Malcolm served as the Master of Music at Westminster Cathedral from 1947 to 1959, where he developed a distinctive, powerful choral sound that gained wide recognition. His tenure influenced not only the music at Westminster Cathedral but also set a new standard for Roman Catholic choral music in Britain. Notably, Benjamin Britten was inspired by Malcolm’s work to compose the Missa Brevis (1959), which premiered during Malcolm’s final year at the Cathedral.
Renowned for his strict yet affectionate relationship with the Westminster Cathedral Choir, Malcolm transformed the choir’s sound and approach, earning widespread acclaim for their “staggering brilliance and authority”. He was awarded papal honours for his services to Westminster Cathedral and the Roman Catholic Church.
Malcolm composed and arranged several notable works for choir, including the Palm Sunday introit Ingrediente Domino. His setting of Psalm 51, Miserere mei (1950), was presumed lost but rediscovered in 2011. This piece draws from the tradition of Allegri’s Miserere, reflecting Malcolm’s deep engagement with liturgical repertoire.
Malcolm was a leading figure in harpsichord performance and made significant recordings. He frequently collaborated with celebrated musicians such as violinist Yehudi Menuhin and Manoug Parikian, and was recognized for his virtuosity. While Malcolm made few recordings as a pianist, some exceptions exist, such as with the Dennis Brain Wind Ensemble.
Explore the works of George Malcolm and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of classical music.
