Kenneth Leighton (1929-1988)

One of the most successful British composers of the latter half of the twentieth century, Kenneth Leighton’s lifelong musical relationship with the human voice, began as a chorister in the choir of Wakefield Cathedral as a young boy. It was to impact greatly on his writing.

Over the course of his life he wrote almost continually for the voice, absorbing vocal lines in all settings. It provided an excellent vehicle for some of his most lyrical and expressive writing.

Kenneth Leighton was born in Wakefield in 1929. He studied classics at Queen’s College, Oxford and went on to Rome to study with Italian composer Goffredo Petrassi. From 1952 he took up teaching roles which eventually led to his appointment as Reid Professor of Music at the University of Edinburgh, a position he held until his death in 1988. As composer, Leighton became one of the most distinguished of post-war Britain, winning many prizes and awards for his music. He loved to explore new forms and stove to improve his mastery of music. Many of his works were written to commission with over 100 compositions published. He made a great contribution to Anglican Church music and as an accomplished pianist he frequently performed, conducted and broadcast piano recitals.