John Rutter

John Rutter

John Rutter

John Milford Rutter (born 24 September 1945) is a British composer, conductor, editor, arranger, and record producer, mainly of choral music. He was born in London, and educated at Highgate School and Clare College, Cambridge. Rutter's compositions are predominantly choral, including Christmas carols, anthems, and extended works such as a Requiem and a Gloria.

Early Life and Education

Rutter was born in London and grew up in a musical household. He attended Highgate School, where a fellow pupil was John Tavener, another future composer. Rutter then went on to study music at Clare College, Cambridge, where he was a member of the choir and later became the director of music.

Career

Rutter's first compositions were published while he was still an undergraduate. His early work includes the Shepherd's Pipe Carol, which remains a popular piece. After completing his studies, Rutter worked as a director of music at Clare College, Cambridge, and later founded the Cambridge Singers, a professional chamber choir primarily dedicated to recording.

Rutter has composed a large body of choral music, including anthems, carols, and extended works such as the Requiem (1985), the Magnificat (1990), and the Mass of the Children (2003). His music is characterized by its melodic richness and accessibility, often drawing on traditional English choral traditions.

Notable Works

• Requiem (1985)
• Gloria (1974)
• Magnificat (1990)
• Mass of the Children (2003)
• Shepherd's Pipe Carol (1966)

Influence and Style

Rutter's music is known for its lyrical quality and often features lush harmonies and memorable melodies. He has been influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including English folk music, French choral music, and American popular music. His works are frequently performed by choirs around the world, and he is considered one of the most significant contemporary composers of choral music.

Personal Life

Rutter has been awarded several honorary degrees and is a Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music. He continues to compose, conduct, and record, and remains an influential figure in the world of choral music.

Selected Discography

• Requiem (1985)
• Gloria (1974)
• Magnificat (1990)
• Mass of the Children (2003)

External Recognition

Rutter has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music, including an honorary fellowship from Westminster Choir College and a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services to music.

See Also

• Choral music
• Requiem (Rutter)
• Magnificat (Rutter)
• Mass of the Children
• Cambridge Singers