Sir Humphrey Burton, one of the most influential figures in arts broadcasting, has died at the age of 94.
The award-winning film-maker and director, who revolutionised classical music programming, died at home with his family by his side.
His daughter Clare Dibble posted on X on Wednesday: “It is with great sadness that I report the passing of my father, Sir Humphrey Burton … this morning at home with family by his side.”
Born in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, in 1931, Burton became one of the industry’s most admired broadcasters, bringing the joy of classical music to the general public. He was the BBC’s head of music and arts during the 1960s and 70s, and went on to win awards for programmes such as The Golden Ring. He also launched the BBC Young Musician of the Year in 1978, which discovered soloists such as the violinist Nicola Benedetti.
BBC Radio 3 said in a post on social media that it was saddened by the news, adding: “He was a much-loved classical music broadcaster and had a huge influence on generations of arts programme-makers. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Sam Jackson, the controller of BBC Radio 3 and BBC Proms, said: “Very sad news – but what a life, and what a legacy. I count myself as being very fortunate to have produced a few radio programmes with Humphrey, back in the day. A man so full of grace, warmth, and brilliant anecdotes. Thinking of his family at this time.”
The Royal Philharmonic Society, of which Burton was an honorary member, paid tribute to the broadcaster, saying: “Few have done so much to proclaim classical music’s wonders. In his many TV programmes and vivid writing, he set a gold standard for us all to sustain, engaging millions with music.”
Burton was a frequent collaborator of Yehudi Menuhin and Leonard Bernstein, on whom he wrote a biography. He was also a presenter on Classic FM, where he worked on series about Menuhin and Bernstein. In a tribute, Classic FM said: “With these broadcasts and his writing he introduced multiple generations to classical music with the trademark enthusiasm that made his name synonymous with arts broadcasting.”
In a statement to the radio station, Burton’s family said: “He was deeply loved by his children and grandchildren, and his commitment to spreading the joy of classical music was so inspiring. An award‑winning writer, producer and film-maker and a huge influence on several generations of arts programme makers, he was also a former presenter at Classic FM. He will be missed beyond words. We take comfort in knowing he is now at peace.”
Suzy Klein, the head of arts and classical music TV at the BBC, said: “In the history of arts and classical music broadcasting, there are few figures as influential as Sir Humphrey Burton. His vision, ambition and ability to forge partnerships across borders brought world-class opera, classical music and arts programming into the homes of many millions. Humphrey leaves an enormous legacy at the BBC and beyond, and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Burton was also a founding member of London Weekend Television, where he edited and presented Aquarius. He won several awards including Baftas and Emmys and was knighted in the 2020 new year honours for services to classical music and the arts.
In his 2021 autobiography, In My Own Time, Burton said he would like the BBC to take risks with new music programmes.
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