H. Hugh Bancroft

Henry Hugh Bancroft (29 February 1904 – 11 September 1988) was a British organist, choirmaster, and composer who was organist of five cathedrals. He was born in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, and studied music with E. P. Guthrie and J. S. Robinson in nearby Grimsby.

He attained the FRCO diploma in 1925. He was then organist of Old Clee parish church and was supplementing his modest income by playing in the local theatre and by working as a compass adjuster. Seeking better prospects, he left for Canada in 1929 to become organist of St. Matthew's Anglican Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In 1936 while at St. Matthew's, he earned an external BMus from Durham University. After nine years, he left for the Church of the Ascension in Hamilton, Ontario, but stayed there only nine months.

An active composer and arranger, Bancroft was an Associate Composer of the Canadian Music Centre and published numerous pieces, including anthems, motets, chorale and organ works. Several works were premiered by major symphony orchestras.

Selected Musical Works Mass of St. Thomas (1974), mass(music) Good Christians Now Let All Rejoice (1948), Carol(music) Intermezzo (1938) Marching Tune (1938) Pavan (1958), pavane Concerto for Organ and Strings (1967)

Honours FRCCO (Royal Canadian College of Organists) 1976 DMus (Cantuar) 1977 LL D (Alberta) 1980

Recordings Organ Music From All Saints (1970, ST-56722-23)