Bax, Sir Arnold (1883-1953), a British composer, wrote music in most forms except opera. He described himself as a Romantic composer, seeing music as an “expression of emotional states.” Bax lived in Ireland for several years, and his fondness for Irish folk music and literature can be heard in many of his early works, such as the Festival Overture (1911) and the tone poem Tintagel (1919). His seven symphonies are a rich expression of the deeply spiritual side of his composition. His Sixth Symphony ranks among his major works. Bax’s most important other compositions include the tone poem The Garden of Fand (1916) and Winter Legends (1930) for piano and orchestra.
Arnold Edward Trevor Bax was born on Nov. 8, 1883, in London. He was knighted in 1937. In 1942, he was appointed master of the king’s music, an honorary post given to a distinguished musician, usually a composer, who writes music for royal events. In addition to his music, Bax wrote short stories, poetry, and plays. He also wrote an autobiography, Farewell, My Youth (1943). Bax died on Oct. 3, 1953.
See also Master of the king’s music.
