Looking Back, Looking Forward
Week of 28 December – 3 January
This Week on MusicOfTheDay.co.uk
As one year closes and another begins, this week’s composers reflect both continuity and change – modern voices alongside historical figures, and a gentle musical step from December into January.
28 December – Daniel Léo Simpson
A contemporary composer and educator whose work bridges creativity, accessibility, and musical storytelling.
29 December – Philip Sparke
One of the most influential brass band composers of modern times, whose music is played worldwide by ensembles of all levels.
30 December – Alex Baranowski
Composer for stage and screen, known for emotionally rich scores that enhance storytelling with subtle power.
31 December – Jennifer Higdon
Pulitzer Prize–winning American composer whose vibrant orchestral music closes the year with colour and confidence.
1 January – Johann Christian Bach
The “London Bach”, whose elegant Classical style influenced Mozart and helped shape a new musical era.
2 January – Barbara Pentland
A pioneering Canadian modernist whose music combined clarity, experimentation, and expressive depth.
3 January – Maurice Jaubert
French composer remembered for evocative film music and orchestral works shaped by early 20th-century change.
This week marks a musical turning point – a chance to reflect on what’s been explored and to look ahead to new discoveries still to come.
Explore the archive at MusicOfTheDay.co.uk
A full year of daily posts, ready whenever you are.
