David Matthews (b. 1943) — Variation on “Cromer” (2005) for organ
English composer David Matthews (b. 1943) was born in London where he grew up alongside his brother, composer Colin Matthews. After studying classics at Nottingham University, Matthews continued study with Anthony Milner and Nicholas Maw. In his youth, he also assisted Benjamin Britten with the Aldeburgh Festival, and with his brother helped Deryck Cooke on the orchestration and editing of Cooke’s performing version of Mahler’s 10th symphony. David Matthews’s output as a composer has focused largely on instrumental music, especially works in traditional genres: including 9 symphonies, 14 string quartets, 3 piano trios, several concerti, and numerous other works for orchestra and chamber ensembles. His music has been widely performed and commissioned, and he is considered one of the most important English composers of his generation.