Robert Farnon: The Maestro of Light Orchestral Music

Robert Farnon was a Canadian-born composer, arranger, and conductor who became a defining figure in the world of light orchestral music. His sophisticated compositions and lush arrangements earned him the title "the greatest living string writer in the world" from none other than American composer and conductor Andre Kostelanetz.

Early career

Born in 1917 in Toronto, Canada, Robert Farnon began his musical journey as a trumpet player and arranger for Percy Faith's Canadian Broadcasting Corporation orchestra. His talent quickly propelled him to the role of conductor for the CBC's The Army Show during World War II, a pivotal experience that led him to settle in the United Kingdom permanently in 1944.

After the war, Farnon began recording for the UK label Decca, releasing a series of instrumental singles and EPs that showcased his emerging style. His early work blended the discipline of the big band era with a new, cinematic sensibility, laying the groundwork for his signature sound.

Breakthrough

Robert Farnon's international breakthrough came in the 1950s through his prolific work for the London-based record label Philips. His albums, such as Canadian Impressions and How Beautiful Is Night, became staples of the "mood music" genre, celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship and melodic invention.

While not typically chasing pop charts, his recordings achieved remarkable commercial longevity and critical acclaim. His 1956 composition Jumping Bean became a surprise hit, demonstrating his ability to craft catchy, vibrant instrumentals with mass appeal.

Key tracks

Portrait of a Flirt — This lively and charming composition remains one of his most recognizable tunes, perfectly encapsulating his witty and melodic style.

A Star Is Born — This sweeping, romantic piece showcases Farnon's genius for string arrangement and his gift for creating vivid musical imagery.

Westminster Waltz — Adopted as a signature tune by BBC Radio 2, this waltz became a British broadcasting institution and a testament to his enduring popularity.

Jumping Bean — A playful and rhythmically infectious piece that became a substantial hit, proving his music's broad commercial potential.

Lake of the Woods — From his Canadian Impressions suite, this beautiful piece reflects his national heritage and his talent for evocative, scenic composition.

Farnon's reputation as a premier arranger led to prestigious collaborations across the music industry. He provided orchestral backings for legendary vocalists including Frank Sinatra on Great Songs from Great Britain, Tony Bennett, and Lena Horne, bringing a distinctive transatlantic sheen to their recordings.

His later career saw continued success with albums on the Vocalion label and numerous awards recognizing his contribution to music. Robert Farnon received four Ivor Novello Awards, including one for Outstanding Services to British Music, and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1998.

For fans of Robert Farnon's elegant and melodic style, the music of Percy Faith offers a similar mastery of orchestral mood music. The sophisticated arrangements of Stanley Black share Farnon's cinematic scope and precision. Listeners may also appreciate the British light music of Eric Coates, known for his memorable thematic suites. The work of Ron Goodwin provides another link, blending accessible melody with rich orchestration for film and record.

Robert Farnon's timeless catalog is a fixture on dedicated easy listening and classic orchestral radio stations. His music fills the playlists of specialist programs focusing on light music from the mid-20th century, ensuring his sophisticated sound continues to reach new audiences through the airwaves.

You can hear the elegant and enduring music of Robert Farnon on the light orchestral and classic mood music radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover the maestro's rich catalog and enjoy his masterful arrangements as part of our regular broadcasting rotation.