Roger Cuthbert Quilter was a renowned British composer born on 1 November 1877 in Hove, Sussex. Known for his art songs, he composed over a hundred pieces, many of which set poetry by famous writers like William Shakespeare to music. Quilter’s early education took place at Farnborough and Eton College, before he studied composition at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt, where he met other aspiring composers.

Quilter’s musical reputation stems from his songs and light music, such as the popular Children’s Overture, which features nursery rhyme tunes. He collaborated closely with the tenor Gervase Elwes until Elwes’ death in 1921. His opera “Julia” premiered at Covent Garden in 1936 but had limited performances.

Despite facing personal challenges, including struggles with his identity and mental health, Quilter left a lasting legacy. His most famous works include “Love’s Philosophy” and “Non Nobis, Domine,” which is widely sung in schools today.