Goff Richards facts for kids

Goff Richards was a very talented musician from Cornwall, England. He was born on August 18, 1944, and passed away on June 25, 2011. Goff was famous for writing and arranging music, especially for brass bands. He also taught music and led a big band. Sometimes, people knew him as Godfrey Richards.

Early Life and Learning

Goff Richards was born in Cornwall. He loved music from a young age. He went to two important schools to study music. First, he studied at the Royal College of Music. Then, he continued his studies at Reading University. These schools helped him become a great musician.

A Talented Teacher and Band Leader

Goff Richards was not just a composer; he was also a teacher. From 1976 to 1989, he taught music arranging. He worked at Salford College of Technology. He also led the Chetham's Big Band for many years. Under his leadership, the Salford University Jazz Orchestra won a big award. They were named the BBC Big Band of the Year in 1989. Goff received a special Doctorate from Salford University in 1990.

Amazing Music and Awards

Goff Richards wrote many original pieces for brass bands. Some of his well-known works include "Trailblaze" and "Exploding Brass!". He also wrote marches like "The Jaguar". In 1984, he won an award from the European Broadcasting Union. This was for his piece called "Continental Caprice".

He was also very good at arranging music for brass bands. This means he took existing songs and changed them for brass instruments. Some of his famous arrangements include "Over the Rainbow" and "New York, New York". He even arranged popular songs like "Mack the Knife".

Goff also wrote music for orchestras and choirs. His music was played by famous groups. These included the King's Singers and the Huddersfield Choral Society. Even famous musicians like Evelyn Glennie performed his works.

A Special Cornish Honor

In 1976, Goff Richards received a special honor. He was made a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedd. This is a group that celebrates Cornish culture. Being a Bard means you are recognized for your contributions. It is a very important award in Cornwall.

The Mystery of Demelza

Goff Richards is also thought to have written a solo piece. It is called "Demelza" or "The Maid of the Mist". He used a different name for this, Hugh Nash. It was first written for the E flat tenor horn. Later, it was also arranged for the soprano cornet.

Later Life

Goff Richards passed away on June 25, 2011. He was 66 years old. He died in Cheshire after an illness. His music continues to be played and enjoyed by many.