Composer Antony Hopkins dies aged 93

Antony Hopkins, who presented the BBC Radio 3 programme Talking About Music, has died at the age of 93.

16:26 07 May 2014

Composer, broadcaster, conductor, and accomplished pianist Antony Hopkins, who presented the BBC Radio 3 programme Talking About Music for more than 36 years, has died at the aged of 93. 

 

Mr Hopkins, who was appointed a CBE in 1976 for his contribution to music, was born in Edmonton, north London. 

 

Among his well-known music were compositions for the films Billy Budd, Cast a Dark Shadow and The Pickwick Papers. 

 

One of the first to pay tribute was Roger Wright, controller of BBC Radio 3. 

 

He said: "I was one of the many listeners who benefitted from his groundbreaking radio programmes, Talking About Music. 

 

"By his authority (worn lightly) and his warm tone, his influence was immense and it was a privilege to have been able to hear him. 

 

"He was even kind enough to take time to respond to this teenager's letter commenting on one of his talks about a Mozart Piano Concerto. I shall always remember that generosity of spirit and desire to spread the word about the joy and magic of classical music."