Tributes flood in as BBC music star suddenly dies at 74: ‘Genuine friend to all’
Acclaimed composer and conductor Ronald Corp OBE has died at the age of 74.
The BBC music star, who worked with the BBC Concert Orchestra and appeared at the BBC Proms, passed away on the morning of May 7 in Bath.
News of his sudden death was announced on Friday, with tributes pouring in from fans and colleagues.
Corp was a highly respected figure in British classical music who entertained millions throughout his distinguished career.
He was the founder and artistic director of the New London Orchestra and the New London Children’s Choir.
In addition to his work with the BBC, Corp served as musical director for the London Chorus from 1994.
He also held the position of musical director for the Highgate Choral Society.
Corp was not only a distinguished musician but also an ordained Anglican priest, combining his musical talents with his spiritual calling.
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The London Chorus expressed their profound grief in a heartfelt tribute on their website.
“It is with the most intense sadness that we announce that our beloved Musical Director, Ronald Corp, died on the morning of 7th May at Bath,” the statement read.
“Ron was not simply a highly talented musician, as a composer, conductor and chorus master. He was a genuine friend to us all: motivated at all times by the sincerity of his love of music and of the people with whom he made it.”
The London Chorus further noted that Corp had been associated with them for 40 years, with 30 of those as Musical Director.
“What the Choir owe to him can scarcely be put into words. Our grief is raw: but soon we shall devise a means to commemorate him so that his name and his example live on among us and in our Choir,” they added.
The choir described him as someone who “believed in it profoundly” and whose contribution was immeasurable.
Fans have taken to social media to express their sympathies following Corp’s death.
One wrote: “Very sad to hear the news of the death of conductor, Ronald Corp OBE – a very sensitive and dedicated conductor, so at home in music by our home-grown composers.”
Another shared: “The death has been announced, aged 74, on 7th May of Ronald Corp OBE. Composer, conductor and Anglican priest he is probably best known for his work with British light classical music notably including Robert Binge.”
Corp was particularly recognised for his interpretations of British composers’ works.
Throughout his career, Corp received recognition for his contributions to music, including being awarded an OBE.
He was particularly celebrated for his work with British light classical music, including pieces by Robert Binge such as “Sailing By” and “Elizabethan Serenade.”
His sudden passing has left the British classical music community in mourning.
As a composer, conductor and priest, Corp leaves behind a rich legacy that touched the lives of countless musicians and music lovers across the country.