Legendary music filmmaker who brought classical giants to television passes at 89

Barrie Gavin‚ a pioneering music filmmaker who passed away at 89 (11/12/24)‚ shaped how we see classical music on TV. His unique eye turned musical performances into eye-catching television; making complex compositions accessible to wider audiences

During his early-60s BBC career start‚ Gavin worked with major musical figures: documenting rehearsals‚ performances and behind-the-scenes moments. His ground breaking work included filming Aaron Copland with London Symphony Orchestra (a project that showed both musical precision and light-hearted moments with press)‚ and creating dozen programmes with Pierre Boulez

His innovative approach to filming music – which included splitting screens into multiple pieces and using abstract visuals instead of literal interpretations – changed how classical music was presented on TV. Despite not being able to read musical scores‚ Gavinʼs enthusiasm and creative vision led to remarkable results: his work with composers like Karlheinz Stockhausen and Olivier Messiaen showed their music in new ways

The mid-80s marked the start of a long partnership with conductor Simon Rattle‚ beginning with “1911: A Year in Musical History“ series. Their collaboration was unique because Rattle gave Gavin complete creative freedom (though sometimes Gavin wished for more feedback)

His career included roles at:

• BBC Monitor programme
• British Film Institute
• BBC Bristol Arts Unit
• Third Eye Productions
• German television networks

Born in London (06/10/35)‚ educated at St Pauls School and Cambridge‚ Gavin married writer Jamila Patten in ʼ71. His work earned him honorary membership of Royal Philharmonic Society – making him its first-ever filmmaker member. Living his final years in Powys Wales‚ he maintained close ties with Presteigne Festival