Renowned Classical Music Broadcaster Sir Humphrey Burton Passes Away
Sir Humphrey Burton, a distinguished broadcaster in classical music, has passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy in the arts. Born in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, he began his illustrious career on BBC radio. Over the years, he interviewed a host of prominent composers and musicians, including Francis Poulenc, Count Basie, Oscar Hammerstein, and Glenn Gould during the 1950s and 1960s.
Achievements in Broadcasting
Burton’s contributions to classical music broadcasting earned him two prestigious Emmy Awards. The first award came in 1972 for his work on “Bernstein on Beethoven: A Celebration in Vienna.” He received his second Emmy in 1988 for the “Great Performances” episode titled “Celebrating Gershwin.”
Support for Young Musicians
In 1978, he played a significant role in launching the BBC Young Musician of the Year award. This initiative helped discover and promote several talented soloists, including acclaimed violinist Nicola Benedetti.
Recognition and Tributes
In recognition of his vast contributions to classical music and the arts, Sir Humphrey Burton was knighted in 2020. BBC Radio 3 expressed their sorrow at his passing, highlighting his “incredible influence on generations of arts programme makers.” They described him as a “much loved” broadcaster, whose impact will be felt for years to come.
