Edmund Rubbra

Edmund Rubbra (1901-1986) was one of the most significant English symphonists of the 20th century; his cycle of 11 symphonies spans a period of nearly 50 years, from 1935 to 1979. Raised in poverty, Rubbra befriended his idol, composer Cyril Scott, and studied with Scott and Gustav Holst. Rubbra had just established himself as a composer when World War II began. Afterwards, Rubbra worked as a lecturer at Oxford, and later as an instructor at the Guildhall School of Music until shortly before his death. In addition to the symphonies, Rubbra was also productive in the fields of choral and chamber music.