Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised Jun 24, 2026

Leon Coates

Leon Coates (1937–2023) was an English composer, pianist and conductor who worked mostly in Scotland.

Last revised
Jun 24, 2026
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Leon Coates (1937–2023) was an English composer, pianist and conductor who worked mostly in Scotland.1

He was born in Wolverhampton2 and grew up in Nottingham and Derby.3 Coates studied composition at St John's College, Cambridge under John Exton.3 He was organist of St Andrew's and St George's Church, Edinburgh.3

Much of his work is chamber music4 and songs (many written for his wife Heather) but also includes concertos for viola5 and harpsichord. From 1965 to 2002, he was a highly respected member of the Music Faculty at Edinburgh University.3

References

References

  1. "Leon Coates obituary". www.thetimes.com. 29 December 2023. Retrieved 28 August 2025.
  2. "Leon Coates". Scottish Music Centre. 2 December 2020. Retrieved 28 August 2025.
  3. "Coates, Leon, 1937–2023". Reid Concerts. 15 July 2025. Retrieved 28 August 2025.
  4. MrCoranglais (21 August 2024). LEON COATES 3 Pieces for Oboe and Piano MARGARET RENNIE MONCRIEFF OBOE LEON COATES PIANO. Retrieved 28 August 2025 – via YouTube.
  5. MrCoranglais (5 September 2024). LEON COATES Viola Concerto ANDREW LEES. Retrieved 28 August 2025 – via YouTube.