Steve Martland (7 November 1960 – 21 June 2013) was a British composer known for his distinctive approach to contemporary classical music, which often incorporated elements of rock, minimalism, and rhythmic vitality. Born in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, England, Martland began his musical education as a self‑taught guitarist before studying composition at the University of York under the mentorship of David Blake. He later earned a Master of Music degree at the Royal Academy of Music.
Martland’s early career was marked by collaborations with rock and pop musicians, most notably serving as a guitarist and musical director for the band The Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. In the late 1980s, he shifted focus toward composition, developing a style characterized by driving ostinati, bold orchestration, and the use of amplified instruments alongside traditional ensembles.
Prominent works include:
- "The Garden of Earthly Delights" (1995), a large‑scale orchestral piece commissioned by the London Symphony Orchestra.
- "Seven Scenes from the Life of a Man" (1995), a concertante work for amplified brass and percussion.
- "The Song of the Birds" (2001), a choral composition premiered by the London Philharmonic Choir.
- "The Last Day" (2004), a dramatic cantata for choir, orchestra, and soloists.
- "Missa Brevis" (2009), a liturgical setting performed by the BBC Singers.
Martland held several notable appointments, including Composer‑in‑Residence with the London Symphony Orchestra (1995–1997) and the BBC Symphony Orchestra (2003–2006). He was also a Visiting Professor of Music at the Royal Academy of Music, where he mentored emerging composers.
His contributions were recognized with multiple awards and honors, such as the Royal Philharmonic Society Music Composition Award (1999) and a British Composer Award for his orchestral work "The Garden of Earthly Delights" (2000). Martland’s music was widely performed across Europe and North America, and recordings of his works have been released on labels including Naxos and Deutsche Grammophon.
Steve Martland died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 52 while on holiday in Italy. His legacy endures through his innovative compositions, which continue to influence contemporary classical music and are frequently programmed by orchestras and ensembles worldwide.
