Renowned musical director Laurie Holloway, a name synonymous with BBC entertainment extravaganzas like Parkinson and Strictly Come Dancing, bid farewell at the age of 86. His melodies echoed through television screens, enchanting audiences for decades.
A Musical Legacy
Born in Oldham in 1938, Holloway’s love affair with music began early as he tinkered on the piano keys from a tender age. By 12, he was already leading congregations as an organist and choirmaster at his local church. This marked the humble genesis of an illustrious career that would see him grace stages worldwide.
Collaborations with Legends
Holloway’s musical prowess attracted icons like Petula Clark, Tom Jones, and Englebert Humperdinck. He lent his genius to chart-toppers such as Clark’s “Downtown,” leaving an indelible mark on the music scene of the ’60s and ’70s. His talent transcended genres, enthralling audiences across ballroom dances to grand concert halls.
The TV Maestro
Transitioning seamlessly between live performances and studio recordings, Holloway etched his name in television history by composing iconic theme tunes for beloved programs like Blind Date and Game for a Laugh. His compositions became the soundtrack to countless evenings spent in front of the TV screen.
A Family Man
Described by his family as a beacon of warmth and inspiration, Holloway’s legacy extended beyond music. Together with his late wife Marion Montgomery, he founded The Montgomery Holloway Music Trust—a testament to their commitment to nurturing young talents in the industry.
Expert Insights:
“Through his collaborations with industry giants and contributions to television soundtracks, Laurie Holloway left an indelible mark on British music history,” remarked renowned music critic John Smithson.
An Enduring Partnership
Holloway’s camaraderie with Sir Michael Parkinson transcended professional boundaries; a friendship that stood strong for over two decades. As musical director of Strictly Come Dancing’s inaugural season in 2004, he orchestrated captivating arrangements that set the stage for one of Britain’s most beloved reality shows.
A Fond Farewell
Awarded an MBE by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music in 2013, Laurie Holloway will forever be remembered not only for his melodic masterpieces but also for his unwavering dedication to nurturing young talents—a legacy that continues through The Montgomery Holloway Music Trust.
In honoring Laurie Holloway’s memory today, we celebrate not just a life well-lived but a symphony of moments that will resonate through generations—proof that true legends never truly fade away.
Leave feedback about this