Composer and Conductor Ronald Corp has Died, Aged 74

Corp was the founder of the New London Orchestra and the New London Children’s Choir 

Born in 1951, the English composer and conductor Ronald Corp OBE studied music at Oxford University before joining the library at BBC Radio 3. In 1988, he founded the New London Orchestra and formed the New London Children's Choir in 1991. 

He also served as musical director of the Highgate Choral Society and was the musical director of the London Chorus for three decades from 1994.

Most of his compositions focused on vocal and choral music; notably, his song cycle Letters from Lony was recorded by mezzo Sarah Pring, the Chilingirian Quartet, and pianist Andrew Brownell for Toccata. 

Corp also wrote string quartets (recorded by the Maggini Quartet for Naxos) and large orchestral works. His First Symphony and First Piano Concerto were recorded on one album by pianist Leon McCawley with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. 

Additionally, as a recognized authority on choral training and repertory, he authored The Choral Singer’s Companion, which is now in its third edition.

In 1999, Corp was ordained as an Anglican priest. In 2012, he was appointed an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II for services to music.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Musical Director, Ronald Corp … Ron was a highly talented composer, conductor and chorus master,” the London Chorus posted on Instagram. “He was motivated at all times by the sincerity of his love of music and of the people with whom he made it. 

“He had been associated with The London Chorus for 40 years, 30 of those as Musical Director, and was a staunch advocate for choral music and singing. Just over a year ago we had the joy of being conducted by Ron in a performance of Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius. It was one of many highlights in a long and richly fulfilling relationship. Ron will be missed hugely by us all.”

Our condolences to Mr. Corp’s family, friends, and colleagues.

A 2021 podcast interview with Corp can be viewed below.