Scoreload

English composer, conductor, and pianist renowned for his film scores and concert works.Born in London, Blake displayed musical talent early, studying piano and composition at the Royal Academy of Music. He achieved widespread fame for his score for the animated film 'The Snowman' (1982), particularly the song 'Walking in the Air'. His prolific output spans orchestral works, concertos, choral music, operas, chamber music, and numerous acclaimed film scores like 'A Month in the Country' and 'The Duellists'. He is also a respected concert pianist and conductor. Blake was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1994 for services to music.

• Blake was largely self-taught in composition after initial lessons, developing his distinctive style through practical experience in film, TV, and theatre.
• The song 'Walking in the Air' from 'The Snowman' became a global phenomenon, covered by numerous artists and establishing Blake's name internationally.
• Despite his film success, Blake maintained a significant parallel career in concert music, including symphonies, concertos for instruments like violin, piano, and cello, and large-scale choral works like the 'Benedictus'.
• He was awarded the OBE in 1994, recognizing his substantial contributions across multiple musical fields.