Sir David Willcocks

Sir David Willcocks was a beloved and influential figure in British choral music, renowned for his exceptional talent as a conductor, organist, and composer. Born in Cornwall in 1919, Willcocks' career spanned over six decades, during which he made an indelible mark on the musical landscape. He is perhaps best known for his tenure as the director of the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, from 1957 to 1974, where he transformed a group of young choristers into one of the world's most celebrated choirs. His annual performances of the Nine Lessons and Carols became a cherished tradition, and his arrangements and descants for these services are still widely performed and beloved today. Willcocks' contributions to choral music extend far beyond King's College; he also served as the director of the Royal College of Music in London and the musical director of the Bach Choir for 38 years. His extraordinary memory and musical prowess allowed him to conduct complex works from memory, a testament to his deep understanding and passion for music. Willcocks' legacy as a choral conductor, composer, and educator continues to inspire and influence musicians and music lovers alike.