The Symphony No. 5 was written in 1961 to commemorate four of Arnold's friends who died young, including horn player Dennis Brain and clarinettist Frederick 'Jack' Thurston.
Critical Reception
Despite receiving accolades and a knighthood in his final decades, Arnold's music was met with indifference and hostility from critics in his younger days.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Arnold defined music as 'an act of friendship,' which is demonstrated by his many concertos written as presents or tributes to distinguished players and friends.
Composer Biography
Sir Malcolm Arnold, a gifted British composer, found a new interest in jazz and the trumpet at age twelve after hearing Louis Armstrong.
Composer Biography
Arnold's later life was marked by mental illness and marital breakdown, which was reflected in the dark tone of his music from that period.
Composer Biography
Arnold initially earned his living as a trumpeter, joining the London Philharmonic Orchestra as second trumpet and quickly becoming principal.
Compositional Technique
Arnold's English Dances capture the flavour of English folk music without using any traditional tunes, as all the material is his own.
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