Richard Alston, a pioneering British choreographer, has passed away at 77. Alston was celebrated for his profound musicality, which informed his extensive body of work.
His musical instincts were developed from a young age, including listening to a wide range of composers from Bach to Wagner. Alston's choreography was noted for illuminating music, allowing viewers to experience familiar pieces in new ways through movement.
Alston was also a radical figure in British contemporary dance, being part of the first intake of contemporary dance students in London in the late 1960s. He was instrumental in forging this new art form in the UK and was known for his bold musical choices, often working with composers such as Ligeti, Boulez, and Birtwistle.