Coleridge-Taylor, Avril (1903–1998)

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Coleridge-Taylor, Avril (1903–1998)

English conductor, composer, and pianist. Born Avril Gwendolen Coleridge-Taylor in South Norwood, England, Mar 18, 1903; died Dec 21, 1998, in England; dau. of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, distinguished African-British composer.

At 12, wrote 1st composition and won scholarship to attend Trinity College of Music to study piano and composition; learned composition from Gordon Jacob and Alec Rowely and conducting from Sir Henry Wood; founded 2 orchestras—the Coleridge-Taylor Symphony Orchestra (which she conducted, 1946–51) and the Malcolm Sargent Symphony Orchestra; founded and directed the New World Singers, a male voice ensemble; was 1st woman to conduct the H.M. Royal Marine band; conducted BBC Symphony Orchestra and London Symphony Orchestra; wrote compositions, including Ceremonial March for Independence of Ghana (1957), Comet Prelude (1952), Symphonic Impression (1942) and a Piano Concerto in F-minor (1938).

See also Women in World History.