Francis Chagrin (1905 - 1972), composer
Francis Chagrin described himself as "Roumanian by birth, British by nationality and cosmopolitan by inclination". He loved music so much that, as a young man, he risked family disapproval by secretly putting himself through the Conservatoire in Zurich (at the same time as studying and qualifying as an engineer).He was a prolific and versatile composer who wrote serious music, light music, chamber music, music for the Theatre, for Ballet, for television and for over 200 films of all types.
In 1943, he created and founded the Society for the Promotion of New Music (SPNM) Also during the war, he was music adviser and composer for the BBC French Service for which he was decorated "Officier d'Academie" by the French government in 1948.
In 1963 he was elected Film Composer of the Year.
In 1973, in memory of its founder, the SPNM established The Francis Chagrin Fund for Young Composers.
Selfless, resourceful, urbane, a talented linguist who was witty and charming in several languages, he is perhaps best remembered by friends and family for his wit, humour and generosity of heart. (viz cartoon by Gerard Hoffnung)
Francis Chagrin's Improvisation and Toccatina was performed at a South Bay Chamber Music Society concert in April 1993.