Jacob, Gordon (Percival Septimus) (1895–1984)

English composer and conductor. An eminent specialist in orchestration, as a composer he was prolific in music always ideally suited to the chosen medium. His works include ballet and film music, two symphonies, three suites, variations and other works for orchestra, concertos for various instruments, and chamber music.

Jacob was born in London. He studied under Charles Stanford and Charles Wood at the Royal College of Music, London, and became professor of orchestration there in 1926.

Works Ballet The Jew in the Bush and Uncle Remus (after J C Harris).

Orchestral variations on an air by Purcell and on an original theme for orchestra, Passacaglia on a Well-known Theme (‘Oranges and Lemons’) for orchestra (1931); two symphonies (1929, 1944), sinfonietta (1942), Denbigh suite for strings, Divertimento for small orchestra; concertos for piano, violin, viola, oboe, bassoon, and horn; clarinet concerto (1980).

Chamber and instrumental quartets for oboe and strings, clarinet and strings, and other chamber music; instrumental pieces.

Other music for films; suite for military band.