Howard Goodall

British Composer and Broadcaster

Howard Goodall is an English composer of musicals, choral music, and music for television. He is also known for his work as a broadcaster and presenter on the subject of music. Born on May 26, 1958, Goodall has achieved significant recognition for his contributions to classical and contemporary music. He has composed scores for numerous films and television shows, including the theme tunes for popular British series such as "Blackadder," "Red Dwarf," and "The Vicar of Dibley." His work in sacred music has also garnered acclaim, with pieces like "Eternal Light: A Requiem" earning him particular praise for its innovative blending of traditional Latin Requiem texts with contemporary English poetry. Goodall's compositions often reflect his interest in bringing new perspectives to classical forms and making them accessible to a wider audience. In addition to composing, he has been active in music education, advocating for the importance of music in schools and presenting documentaries that explore musical history and theory. His contributions to the arts have been recognized with several awards, including a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for services to music education in 2011.