Biography
The composer Richard Lambert was born in Bath, UK, in 1951.
His compositions have been influenced by twentieth century mainstream styles - by composers such as Vaughan Williams, Britten, Stravinsky and Shostakovich, with traces of jazz and popular music.
Although preferring to work as a miniaturist, he has written two operas, both of which were well received.
His catalogue also includes chamber music, ensembles, solo keyboard, solo instrumental works, sacred and secular choral, and vocal music.
He enjoys writing commissioned pieces for concerts, weddings and other special occasions.
Influences and education
Richard gained invaluable experience from working with composers Elizabeth Poston and Malcolm Williamson over many years.
He graduated from the University of Bristol in 1973, then gained an MA in Music Education from the Institute of Education (University of London) in 1985.
He enjoyed a further year's study with Sebastian Forbes at the University of Surrey (1993-94), studying the choral music of Malcolm Williamson.
Richard's own teaching career spanned 34 years in four schools (32 of which were as Director of Music) culminating in 10 years at St Helen's School for Girls in Northwood, northwest London.
A life in metroland
Richard initiated and directed the Royston Arts Festival from 1982–86.
He has performed in many venues in Britain and abroad, as pianist, organist, harpsichordist and conductor. He has written a highly successful GCSE music guide, which was published by Longman (Pearson Education).
As a conductor, he has given performances of many large-scale choral works, orchestral works, operas and musicals, and he particularly enjoys the chamber choir repertoire. He has directed three such choirs, including Chanticleer and the Hitchin Orpheus Choir.
Since 1989, he has been a visiting examiner for the London College of Music, travelling to many centres in Europe, North and South America and the Far East. In 2011, Richard became a Senior Examiner. He continues to enjoy this work, drawing on his long experience of music-making and working with young people.
And so to Rutland
Richard has now left teaching and has moved to a quiet village near Rutland Water in the heart of rural England, where, when not examining, he is able to concentrate more fully on his composing and writing.
Richard is a member of ALCS (Authors’ Licensing & Collecting Society Ltd), and in 2011 he was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.