The importance of musical composers in London’s West End
The West End of London is home to many composers who have contributed to the rich musical heritage of the city.
It’s also one of the most lucrative industries in London. The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) releases annual box office stats, with 2022 seeing total box office revenue for the West End set at £892,896,521 across 19,224 performances.
Some of the notable composers include George Gershwin, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cole Porter, and Richard Rodgers.
If you’re interested in learning more about the composers of the West End, Barbara Wright is a tour guide, specialising in walks that cover a variety of classical composers, theatre and opera productions, and world-class performance venues in London’s West End .
George Frederic Handel was born in Germany but spent 47 years in London, arriving here when he was just 26. He went on to write some of the world’s most famous operas and oratorios in the capital and became the toast of London town. His patrons included a queen, two Georgian kings and friends who were the regal and artistic who’s who of London.
Handel was a benefactor and governor of The Foundling Hospital, Britain’s first home for abandoned children. He raised significant money for the Foundling with his performances of the world’s most famous choral piece, Messiah, and would go on to leave a copy of the oratorio in his will to the charity.
Barbara Wright is leading a walk on Saturday, 2 December 2023, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm, £7.5-£15.
Book here WALK | Composers of the West End