Frederick Delius

Frederick Delius (January 29, 1862 - June 10, 1934) was an English composer born in Bradford.

He was of German origin, and spent most of his life outside England. His father wanted Delius to work in the family business, and eventually sent him to be the manager of an orange grove in Florida. However, even there Delius continued to compose music, and he was eventually able to leave the business.Towards the end of his life, he caught syphilis and began to go blind. He therefore employed Eric Fenby as his amanuensis. Fenby later wrote a book about Delius. See also the film Song of Summer directed by Ken Russell based on Fenby's book.

Some of his more well known pieces include:

• On hearing the first cuckoo in spring
• Brigg Fair
• A Village Romeo and Juliet
• A Mass of Life
• Requiem
• Koanga

Less frequently performed pieces include a violin concerto, and a double concerto for violin and cello.

External link

• A Delius page, including the Delius Society (http://www.delius.org.uk/)

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