Eric Coates

Great English composer of light music.

A prolific composer, Coates wrote pieces for orchestras, chamber groups, and solo pianists. In addition to penning more than 160 ballads, he composed numerous instrumental settings for the poetry of William Shakespeare and other British poets. His many radio themes included the theme of the popular BBC radio show Calling All Workers, which aired four times a day, five days a week.

Coates made his orchestral debut in 1911 when his composition Miniature Suite was performed by the Queen's Hall Light Orchestra under the direction of Sir Henry Wood (he himself played viola with the orchestra during the premiere). Although he wrote his most enduring tune, Stonecracker John, in 1909, Coates enjoyed a revival of his popularity in the late 1920s when his songs Birdsongs at Eventide and Homeward to You became major hits. He remained active until shortly before his death in 1957, composing his ever-popular The Dam Busters March for the film The Dam Busters (1954) and High Flight for the 1956 film of that name.

One of his best-known compositions is the London Suite (1933), from which one of his most famous pieces of music Knightsbridge March (used as the theme tune for BBC Radio’s In Town Tonight) was taken.

This is a rare typed and ink-signed letter on an 8" x 5" sheet of headed notepaper (39 Hill Street. London W1 December 21st 1953), to a man who has enjoyed his autobiography Suite in Four Movements, which had been published that year.

It reads (in full):

Thank you for your letter of the 16th inst. and for so kindly sending me your "Sussex Carol" and also your charming book of verses. The first poem in the book "In Memory of Helen" is really beautiful.

My very good wishes to you both and I am so pleases that you enjoyed reading "SUITE IN FOUR MOVEMENTS" and also Austin's Far East book.

Sincerely yours

Eric Coates

One vertical correspondence fold; some very light creasing near the right edge but overall condition is very good.