Ferderick Delius Program Notes and Sheet Music

Frederick Delius (29 January 1862 – 10 June 1934) was an English composer. He is best known for his lyrical and evocative orchestral music, which often features folk melodies and exotic harmonies.

Delius was born in Bradford, England, to a wealthy family. He showed an early talent for music, and began studying the piano and violin at a young age. In 1884, he traveled to Germany to study composition with Hans von Bülow. After two years in Germany, Delius returned to England and settled in Grez-sur-Loing, France.

In France, Delius began to compose in earnest. He was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including French Impressionism, German Romanticism, and African music. His early works were mostly chamber music and songs, but he soon turned to orchestral music.

Delius's first major orchestral work was "Appalachian Spring" (1902), which was inspired by his travels in the American South. The work was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Delius as a leading figure in English music.

Delius continued to compose throughout his life, and his works include symphonies, concertos, chamber music, vocal music, and incidental music for plays. He was also a talented painter, and his watercolours are now exhibited in galleries around the world.

Delius died in Grez-sur-Loing in 1934. He is considered one of the most important English composers of the 20th century. Delius's music is beautiful, lyrical, and evocative. It is a testament to his skill as a composer and his love of nature. His music continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.