New England Online > Culture & Society > Music > John Waterhouse
John Waterhouse
| Sir John Waterhouse | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Born: | 5 October 1966 Kempsey |
| Died: | 16 February 2052 Stuart's Point |
| Active: | 1983 - 2046 |
| Genre: | Classical |
Sir John Jacques Waterhouse KNE OH RAS (5 October 1966 - 16 February 2052) was a composer of classical music, and one of the most popular composers of this century. His music and genius have also played an important role in forming the national identity of New England since independence.
Background
Waterhouse was born into a family of graziers in Bellbrook, near Kempsey, on the 5th October, 1966. John was the third of six children.
In 2046, after a serious fall, Waterhouse announced he would retire from composing and would instead enjoy his last years with his wife and grandchildren. He briefly came out of retirement in 2048 to compose the soundtrack for Kootingal, which won Waterhouse a Clarkson Award in 2049.
In 2049, Waterhouse was diagnosed with cancer. A significant attempt was made to treat the illness, and Waterhouse was able to enjoy a few years of comfort. A relapse in late 2051 led to Waterhouse's health failing rapidly, and he died peacefully in his sleep on the morning of 16 February, 2052. He was 85. The First Minister, Jim Gordon, honoured Waterhouse with a state funeral, which was held the following Wednesday.
Style and Works
The core of Waterhouse's music is his collection of six symphonies. Like many composers before him, Waterhouse used each one to work out a musical idea or to further develop his own personal style. These works continue to be popular, and have often been programmed in concerts and recorded since their premieres.
Some selected works include:
- Dance of the Shearer's Op. 3 (1983)
- Symphony No. 1 in D Minor Op. 11 (1999)
- New England Overture Op. 17 (2014)
- Armidale Op. 21 (2015)
