Oliver Knussen was a British composer and conductor, known for his innovative and influential contributions to contemporary classical music. Born on June 12, 1952, in Glasgow, Scotland, he began composing at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his unique style, which often blended elements of jazz, folk, and modern classical traditions. Throughout his career, Knussen collaborated with various orchestras and ensembles, including the London Sinfonietta and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. He was also a prominent advocate for new music, championing works by other composers and helping to expand the repertoire of contemporary classical music. Knussen passed away on July 8, 2018.