Ivor Novello
Ivor Novello
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Ivor Neville Chamberlain Novello was a Welsh composer of popular songs, actor, and writer. He is commonly known by his stage name, Ivor Novello.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on January 15, 1893, in Cardiff, Wales, Ivor Novello passed away on August 6, 1951, at the age of 58.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Novello was a Welsh national and worked as a composer of popular songs, actor, and writer. He is best known for his work in the music industry, particularly in the realm of film scores and musical theater.
Early Life and Background
Ivor Novello was born into a family with strong artistic connections. His mother, Clara Novello Davies, was a renowned singer, and his father, Ivor Henry Novello, was a composer and conductor. This early exposure to music instilled in him a passion for composition from an early age.
Novello attended St. John's College, Cambridge, where he developed his skills as a pianist and began writing his own compositions. After completing his studies, he moved to London to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his illustrious career, Novello achieved numerous accolades for his contributions to music and film. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
Composing the scores for over 80 films, including the classic 1930s musical Kitty.
Writing the iconic song Keep the Home Fires Burning, which became a rallying cry during World War I.
Creating the popular song We'll Meet Again, which has been covered by numerous artists and remains a timeless classic.Notable Works or Actions
Novello's work spanned multiple genres, from film scores to musical theater. Some of his most notable works include:
The composition of Perchance to Dream, a one-act opera that premiered in 1924.
His collaboration with composer and conductor, Arthur Honegger, on the oratorio King David.
Writing the libretto for the musical Glamorous Night, which premiered in 1935.
Impact and Legacy
Ivor Novello's impact on the entertainment industry is still felt today. His contributions to film scoring and musical theater have inspired countless artists and composers, including notable names such as Elmer Bernstein and Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Novello's music continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences worldwide, with many of his songs remaining timeless classics in their own right. He was also a pioneer in the field of popular music, pushing boundaries with his innovative compositions and lyrical themes.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ivor Novello is widely quoted and remembered for his poignant and uplifting lyrics, which often explored themes of love, loss, and hope. His songs have become an integral part of popular culture, resonating with listeners across generations. Today, he remains one of the most celebrated Welsh composers of all time, with a lasting legacy that continues to inspire new artists and audiences alike.
Novello's influence extends beyond his music, too. He was also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable causes throughout his life. His commitment to using his platform for good has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.
As an iconic figure in British entertainment history, Ivor Novello continues to captivate audiences with his remarkable story of artistic innovation, perseverance, and generosity.
Quotes by Ivor Novello

As the growth of the film industry has progressed from humble beginnings to its present important position, the play has prospered.

Whenever I am asked if I go to hear my Fortune told, I invariably reply, No. I don't go because I don't believe in it-I believe in it too much!

The pictures are designed to portray human emotions, good and evil, fine and tawdry; and it is no wonder that their appeal is so universal.

We were asked to believe that the variety and the novelty of even the crude films of the early days would provide a means of entertainment which would cut out the stage.

The beautiful heroine might be thinking, How long must I bury my face on this wretched man's shoulder? Such is not the always the case, but quite often it is.




