We are saddened to learn of the passing of composer and pianist Richard Rodney Bennett on Christmas Eve. Versatile and active in a number of different genres and styles, he was a master craftsman of tonal choral music, a highly respected film composer, and the creator of serial works such as the opera The Mines of Sulfur. As a performer, he was a persuasive advocate of jazz and pop standards, recording several albums accompanying himself in this song repertory.