Michael Kennedy (music critic)

Michael Kennedy (1926-2014) was a British music critic, journalist, and author, best known for his comprehensive and authoritative writings on classical music, particularly English music. He served as the chief music critic for The Daily Telegraph from 1986 to 2005.

Born in Manchester, Kennedy began his career in journalism after graduating from the Royal Manchester College of Music. He initially worked for various newspapers before joining The Daily Telegraph as a sub-editor and music critic. His writing was characterized by its clarity, insight, and deep knowledge of musical scores and composers' biographies.

Kennedy was a prolific author, publishing numerous books on composers such as Elgar, Vaughan Williams, Britten, and Mahler. His biography of Ralph Vaughan Williams is considered a definitive work. He also wrote extensively on the Hallé Orchestra, of which he was a long-time supporter and historian. Notable works include "The Hallé, 1858-1983: A History of the Orchestra," "The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Music" (which he revised), and "The Oxford Dictionary of Music" (with Joyce Bourne).

His contribution to music scholarship and journalism was significant, helping to popularize classical music and provide accessible yet informed commentary for a wide audience. He was a staunch advocate for British composers and played a crucial role in promoting their music both domestically and internationally.

Kennedy was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1981 for his services to music. His legacy continues through his published works, which remain essential resources for students, musicians, and music enthusiasts.