Sir Vivian Dunn, composer, conductor and arranger. Born
within the sound of his father's band room in India, he was given a
classical music upbringing which culminated in membership of the first
violins of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. From there he became a Royal
Marines Director of Music at the age of 22, a highly unpopular choice
amongst the military music fraternity; and then revolutionised the Portsmouth
musical scene in the 1930's. After the war, as the Principal Director
of Music of the Royal Marines, he oversaw the complete restructuring
of the Royal Marines Band Service against considerable opposition. Finally,
for his services to four sovereigns in the Royal Yachts, he became the
only military musician ever to be knighted. Awarded an EMI Gold Disc,
in retirement he returned to the classical world and made numerous recordings
with the British, European and American symphony orchestras, many of
which retain their popularity today.
Check out:
A Biography of Lt Col Sir Vivian Dunn
- KCVO OBE FRAM RM
