Sir Philip Ledger CBE, MA, MusB, LLD, DUniv, FRCO 1937-2012

Sir Philip Ledger CBE, MA, MusB, LLD, DUniv, FRCO 1937-2012


We have been greatly saddened to learn of the death of our colleague and College Vice President Sir Philip Ledger.

Philip Ledger was born in Bexhill and educated at King's College, Cambridge. When appointed Master of Music at Chelmsford Cathedral, he became the youngest cathedral organist in the United Kingdom.

As Director of Music at the University of East Anglia, he worked closely with Benjamin Britten as an Artistic Director of the Aldeburgh Festival before returning to King's College, Cambridge as Director of Music.

There he conducted the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols which is broadcast each year on Christmas Eve, made an extensive range of recordings with the famous choir and directed recitals and tours throughout the world. He then became Principal of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

Sir Philip joined the Royal College of Organists in 1955. He was awarded his Associateship in 1956 and his Fellowship in 1959, securing both the Limpus Prize and the Read Prize. He served the College as a member of Council, as an examiner, as College President between 1992 and 1994, and subsequently as a Vice President.

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