Paul Paviour

Paul Paviour OAM FRCO (14 April 1931 – 24 May 2024) was an English composer, organist and conductor based in Australia. He is best known for his contribution to the music of the Anglican Church and composed and adapted at least 471 works in 639 publications.

Early life Paviour was born in Birmingham, England, on 14 April 1931. He attended Bedford Modern School where he took organ lessons and started writing organ and orchestral compositions. Following his education, Paviour carried out National Service in the Royal Marines and the Royal Navy and then attended the Royal College of Music in London where he worked with Herbert Howells, Adrian Boult and Gordon Jacob.

Career Following his studies Paviour held many positions in the fields of musical education, particularly as organist and Director of Music at Parish Churches and Cathedrals. As a 'leading authority on hymn tunes and folk tunes'

Honours Paviour was honoured as a Fellow of the Australian Society of Musicology and Composition (F.A.S.M.C.). He received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his contribution to music and the Centenary Medal. He was named the Director of Music Emeritus of Canberra-Goulburn diocese and the Concert Hall of Goulburn Regional Conservatorium is named after him.