Cowie, Edward (1943– )

English composer. Several of his works are based on the story of the Australian criminal Ned Kelly. His interest in painting is reflected in the Choral Symphony of 1982, subtitled Symphonies of Rain, Sea and Speed.

After studying with Alexander Goehr, Peter Fricker, and Witold Lutoslawski, he taught in England, Germany, and Australia.

Works Opera Commedia (1978) and Kelly (1980–82).

Orchestral Concerto for Orchestra (1980), two symphonies, The American and The Australian (1980–82), two clarinet concertos (1969, 1975), harp concerto (1982).

Chamber four string quartets (1973–83), Kelly Passacaglia for string quartet (1980).

Vocal Endymion Nocturnes for tenor and string quartet (1973, revised 1981), Kelly Choruses for voices and harp (1981), Kate Kelly's Roadshow for mezzo and ensemble (1982); Ancient Voices for four voices (1983).

Church music Missa Brevis (Mass for Peace, 1983).