In a career spanning 50 years, John Barry composed the scores for eleven Bond films,plus countless other films including "Out of Africa," "Dances with Wolves," "The Lion in Winter", "Born Free", and Zulu,"
Compilation
Born in York, Barry spent his early life with his Irish father, touring the cinemas of northern England and it was this experience which influenced his musical tastes. In 1957 he formed his own band (The John Barry Seven)Which came to the attention of record producers E.M.I. and resulted in a few hits.
"Hit and Miss"
However, it was in 1962 when Barry really broke through with his style of music which developed as he matured, using lush strings and extensive brass and it was this brassy and moody style which appealed to the film aficionados of the time. he was approached by the producers of a new film called "Dr No", and the rest, as they say, is history.
Barry went on to become one of the most celebrated film composers of all time,winning countless awards including five Academy Awards. In 1975,Barry moved to America to avoid paying tax,(reputedly) and thereafter spent most of his time there.
In his private life, the emotional Barry was married four times , the first three ending in divorce and was the father of four children, but he will be most remembered for the music which gave so many people so much pleasure.
Sadly he died in New York in 2011.
The Lion in Winter
In 2001 The University of York gave Barry an honorary degree, and in 2002 he was made An honorary freeman of York----------- But no knighthood?
