Douglas Guest was a British composer and conductor known for his choral compositions. "For the Fallen" is one of his well-known works. Here are some interesting facts about Douglas Guest and his composition "For the Fallen":
Composer and Conductor: Douglas Guest was not only a composer but also a renowned conductor. He held the position of Organist and Choirmaster at St. John's College, Cambridge, where he made significant contributions to the college's choral music tradition.
"For the Fallen": "For the Fallen" is a choral composition by Douglas Guest, which sets to music Laurence Binyon's famous poem of the same name. The poem is a tribute to those who died in World War I, and Guest's musical setting adds a poignant and reflective dimension to the words.
Commissioned Work: Douglas Guest's "For the Fallen" was commissioned for the dedication of the Royal Air Force Memorial at Runnymede in 1953. This memorial commemorates the airmen of the Royal Air Force who lost their lives during World War II.
Choral Excellence: Douglas Guest was highly regarded for his contributions to choral music. He conducted numerous choral ensembles and was known for his dedication to achieving excellence in vocal performances.
Legacy: While "For the Fallen" remains one of his most recognized compositions, Douglas Guest's body of work also includes other choral pieces, organ music, and hymn tunes. His contributions to sacred music and choral literature continue to be appreciated by musicians and audiences.
Academic Career: In addition to his musical pursuits, Douglas Guest had an academic career. He held positions at universities, including Cambridge, where he influenced and inspired many young musicians.
These facts provide some insight into the composer Douglas Guest and his composition "For the Fallen," which holds a significant place in the repertoire of choral music, especially in the context of honoring those who have made sacrifices in times of war.