Celebrating the Legacy of Mark Edgley Smith
Delve deeper into the fascinating world of choral music as we celebrate the brilliant works of Mark Edgley Smith. STAGE+ invites you to immerse yourself in the beautiful compositions crafted by this genius of the choral tradition. Known for his poignant and powerful spirituals, Smith's compositions seamlessly blend thought-provoking lyrics with deeply emotive melodies. Join us as we explore not just the music, but the man behind the melody - Mark Edgley Smith. Stay tuned with STAGE+ for a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of his art. Discover the charm and majesty that lies in the hand-penned notes of one of the most celebrated composers of our time.
Mark Edgley Smith: Overview
Mark Edgley Smith (1955–2008) was a British composer recognized for his distinct versatility and craftsmanship in choral and instrumental music. Born in Wimbledon, he was educated at Tiffin School, Kingston upon Thames, and later attended The Queen's College, Oxford, on a music scholarship.
Notable Works and Style
Edgley Smith's output is marked by a striking variability of style, ranging from diatonically tuneful to highly complex and chromatic. His works such as 'Vancouver Songbook', 'The House of Sleep', 'Five Madrigals to poems by e. e. cummings' (1994), and 'Jabberwocky' (2001) demonstrate his accessible, melodic style and his more intricate, chromatic approach. His works have been performed by prominent ensembles such as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (Songs my Auntie Taught Me), Fine Arts Brass Ensemble (Fanfares for Forgotten Occasions), Tippett Quartet, and pianist Robert Keeley.
Connection to Choral Music
Mark Edgley Smith's choral works, including his prize-winning settings and commissions, align him with the tradition of British choral innovation. While not directly referenced as being included in the Schola Cantorum of Oxford’s recording "Children of our Time: Tippett Spirituals & Other Choral Works" under Jeremy Summerly, his stylistic affinity for the contemporary choral repertoire places him in the creative orbit of composers featured in such programs.
Legacy
Beyond his compositional achievements, Edgley Smith was cited for his abilities as an artist and literary wit, enriching the British music landscape until his death in 2008 at age 53. He is remembered for the emotional range, formal structure, and ingenuity of his works, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.