Herbert Stanley Oakeley: A Composer's Legacy
Herbert Stanley Oakeley was a renowned English composer, best known for his role as Professor of Music at the University of Edinburgh from 1865 to 1891. Born on July 22, 1830, in Ealing, London, he was educated at Rugby School and Christ Church, Oxford, where he graduated in 1853. Oakeley furthered his musical education in Leipzig, Dresden, and Bonn, Germany.
Career Highlights
Oakeley was appointed Reid Professor of Music at the University of Edinburgh in 1865, significantly contributing to the development of music education in Scotland. He founded several university musical societies, including the Edinburgh University Music Society, and transformed the Reid School of Music into a faculty capable of awarding degrees. Oakeley elevated the annual Reid Concerts by engaging prominent conductors and soloists like Clara Schumann and Charles Halle, introducing a wide range of orchestral works to Edinburgh audiences. He was knighted in 1876 and became Composer of Music to Queen Victoria in Scotland in 1881.
Notable Works
Oakeley's compositions include the Suite in the olden Style op. 27 (1893), which is one of his better-known works. His contributions to hymnody are also notable, although specific hymns like "Jerusalem the Golden" are not attributed directly to him but are part of broader hymn collections.
Featured in Recent Musical Productions
The world of classical music continues to celebrate the works of Oakeley. Recent musical productions featuring works that might be associated with Oakeley or similar composers include:
Our STAGE+ collection presents 'Praise to the Lord: Hymn Favourites from St Paul’s Cathedral'. As the majestic notes unfold from St Paul's Cathedral Choir, led by the prolific John Scott, the evening unfolds into a mesmerizing symphony.
The harmonies of Rupert Gough, in collaboration with Wells Cathedral Choir and Malcolm Archer, add a touch of perfection to the repertoire. Each performance leaves you breathless and longing for more.
Another noteworthy contribution is from Christopher Dearnley and the St Paul's Cathedral Choir. Under the skilled baton of John Scott, they bring life to the rhythm and tones of each hymn, seeping deep into your thoughts and leaving an indelible mark on your soul.
Each note played, each word uttered in these hymns keeps you enthralled. The fascinating works of Herbert Stanley Oakeley, placed in the sanctity of your space, transcend you to a realm of serenity and tranquility. Glide along the symphonies and hymns on STAGE+, your exclusive destination for the best of classical music.