Beecham, << BEE chuhm, >> Sir Thomas (1879-1961), a British conductor, became one of the world’s influential musicians, even though he received little formal musical education. During a period of 40 years, he became a major force in the musical life of Britain. Beecham specialized in opera. He vigorously supported little-known music and founded and financed major orchestras and opera companies. He was known for his irreverent wit and for his expressive flair on the podium.
Beecham was born on April 29, 1879, in Lancashire. At 20, he organized an amateur orchestra. He had achieved world recognition when he made his U.S. debut in 1928 as guest conductor of the New York Philharmonic. He wrote an autobiography, A Mingled Chime (1943), and a biography of Frederick Delius (1960). Beecham died on March 8, 1961.
