*
banner

Death of composer Laurie Johnson

The death has been announced of the composer who brought us the memorable sounds of television classics and iconic films as well as working with the likes of Don Lusher.

porfessionals
  One of his most famous television themes was for 'The Professionals'.

Laurie Johnson MBE, the composer whose music provided the soundtrack to accompany the theme tune wanderlust imagination of teenagers (and quite a few of their parents) throughout the 1960s and 70s has died. He was 96.

The Professionals

Two of his most famous television themes were for 'The Avengers' which starred the suave Patrick Macnee and the feline Diana Rigg, as well as 'The Professionals', (above) with its trio of CI5 crime fighters, Bodie, Doyle and Cowley.

Much of his music was written for the commercial KPM music library, although he studied under Herbert Howells and Ralph Vaughan Williams at the Royal College of Music and was an accomplished French Horn player.

Diverse

Although he also conducted, he gained recognition as a television composer — writing memorable themes for programmes as diverse as 'Animal Magic', 'This is Your Life' and 'Jason King' as well as film scores including 'Tiger Bay', 'Dr Strangelove' and 'First Men in the Moon'.

He also wrote works for symphony orchestra and big band and for soloist such as Kenny Wheeler and Don Lusher.

Much of his music was written for the commercial KPM music library, although he studied under Herbert Howells and Ralph Vaughan Williams at the Royal College of Music and was an accomplished French Horn player4BR

Dearly loved

A statement on the Bucks Music Group website read: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the passing of British producer/composer Laurie Johnson. He was dearly loved by many and is sorely missed by his wife Dot, daughter Sarah, son in law Richard and grandson Lawrence."'

It added: "'Laurie died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday 16th January, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in our hearts.'

Johnson's family also paid tribute to the composer, saying: "Laurie's music touched the lives of millions around the world."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Darren R. Hawken

PGdip, BMus(hons) PGCE, dipABRSM, LRSM
Conductor, Arranger, Teacher, Adjudicator, Band Trainer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd