Kenneth Hesketh Concerts

Experience Kenneth Hesketh

Kenneth Hesketh (born 1968, Preston, Lancashire) is a British composer noted for his vibrant and accessible contemporary classical music. He studied at the Royal Northern College of Music with Anthony Collins and later with Olivier Messiaen in Paris. Hesketh’s compositional output is remarkably diverse, encompassing orchestral works, concertos (particularly for saxophone and piano), chamber music, choral pieces, and opera.

His style blends neo-romantic lyricism with rhythmic energy and a clear harmonic language, often drawing inspiration from jazz and popular music influences – a characteristic that broadens his appeal. Notable works include *The Wild Swans*, a children’s opera commissioned by Scottish Opera, and *Symphony No. 2 ‘Immortal Memory’*, which commemorates the victims of the First World War.

Hesketh has received numerous awards including the Mendelssohn Award (1993) and two British Composer Awards (2004 & 2017). He currently holds the position of Professor of Composition at the Royal College of Music, London, continuing to compose and mentor emerging talent.