BLISS, ARTHUR  

Sir Arthur Bliss, Master of the Queen's Music in Great Britain from 1953 until his death, eventually followed the late romantic tradition of Elgar in English music, after a more controversial period of composition in youth. In accordance with the perceived duties of his official position, he wrote various ceremonial pieces, in addition to music for the concert-hall, theatre and cinema.

Film Music

Familiar music by Bliss includes excerpts from his film-score for H.G. Wells's Things to Come, and the patriotic march Welcome the Queen, also written for a film.

Ballets

The ballets Checkmate, an allegorical game of chess, with choreography by Ninette de Valois and Miracle in the Gorbals, a morality play set in the slums of Glasgow with choreography by Robert Helpman, made a strong impression on ballet audiences.