Composer's Workshop: Howard Skempton

Howard Skempton’s music is renowned for the distinctive clarity of its musical language. He has composed over 300 pieces, many of which are miniatures for solo piano or accordion; his best-known work - Lento (1990), commissioned by the BBC for the BBC Symphony Orchestra - was performed at 2010 BBC Proms and uses its simple materials to create a uniquely radiant sound-world.

In recent years, Skempton has concentrated increasingly on writing vocal and choral music; his choral commissions include works for the BBC Singers and the Belfast Philharmonic Society.

The Faculty of Music is grateful to Elizabeth Carmack for making Howard Skempton’s visit possible.