Justin Connolly
British composer and teacher Justin Connolly was born Justin D'Arcy-Dawson in London on 11 August 1933. After national service and briefly studying law, he studied composition with Peter Racine Fricker, piano with Lamar Crowson and conducting with Adrian Boult at the Royal College of Music, then composition with Mel Powell at Yale University.
His music is modernist in style, often exploring philosphical ideas and those related to history and literature. He wrote in most genres, including electronic music, but with the exception of opera, and was known for his settings of poetry.
He initially taught at Yale, then returned to the UK, where he taught at the Royal College of Music and later at the Royal Academy of Music. He retired from teaching in 1995.
Justin Connolly died in London on 29 September 2020, aged eighty-seven.
A selection of articles about Justin Connolly
Spotlight. Contrasting Elements - Geoff Pearce gradually discovers the charm and skill of music by Justin Connolly. '... beautifully played.'
Classical music news - September 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month
CD Spotlight - Night thoughts. 'Nicolas Hodges ... masters every nuance the musical landscape requires.' The music of Justin Connolly, considered by Peter Dale