Ron Grainer

Ron Grainer was an Australian-born British composer, best known for his work in television and theatre. Born on August 11, 1922, in Atherton, Queensland, he moved to England after World War II to study at the Royal College of Music. With a keen ear for melody and mood, Grainer became a prolific composer across multiple genres, crafting some of the most iconic theme music in television history.

His most famous composition is undoubtedly the Doctor Who theme (1963), one of the earliest examples of electronic music in popular culture. Although the arrangement was realized by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, Grainer’s original score provided the melodic foundation for what became a groundbreaking and instantly recognizable sound.

Grainer’s contributions to theatre included incidental music and scores for revues and musicals, often noted for their wit and charm. He wrote the music for Robert and Elizabeth (1964), a romantic musical about poets Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett, which ran for over 900 performances in London. His melodic sensibilities and dramatic instinct made him a favorite among theatre directors seeking emotionally resonant scores.

In television, his output was vast and influential, with themes for shows like The Prisoner, Steptoe and Son, and Tales of the Unexpected. His ability to craft music that was both atmospherically rich and immediately memorable set him apart in an era that was redefining entertainment.

Ron Grainer died on February 21, 1981, in Cuckfield, England. Though often associated with TV, his work in theatre and his innovative spirit continue to be celebrated by composers and audiences alike.