Renowned classical music critic Andrew Clements has left an indelible mark on the world of music journalism at the tender age of 75. After a remarkable three-decade tenure at The Guardian, Clements' passing marks the end of an era for music enthusiasts who have come to rely on his expert insights and incisive critiques.
Clements joined The Guardian in August 1993, succeeding Edward Greenfield as the paper's chief music critic, thanks to a personal recommendation from the late Alfred Brendel. His deep understanding of contemporary music was evident in every review he penned for the publication, covering an expansive range of genres and styles.
A masterful voice in his own right, Clements' unique perspective and unflinching commitment to artistic integrity earned him the respect of his peers and a loyal following among readers. His unwavering love for music transcended generations and genres, as he championed lesser-known composers like Harrison Birtwistle and Mark-Anthony Turnage, helping to bring their work into the spotlight.
Clements' own musical journey began at an early age, when a chance encounter with Pierre Boulez's work sparked a lifelong passion. This led him to recall every concert he had ever attended – a testament to his encyclopedic knowledge of classical music.
Throughout his career, Clements demonstrated an unapologetic willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and defend his artistic convictions. His affection for solo piano music was particularly evident in his glowing praise of the late Romanian pianist Radu Lupu.
Beneath his sometimes gruff exterior lay a kind, warm, and generous individual who inspired loyalty among his colleagues. Clements' passion extended far beyond music to include birds, butterflies, and orchids – a reflection of his unique personality.
In a statement, Katharine Viner, The Guardian's editor-in-chief, praised Clements as a writer "who wrote about classical music with the utmost passion and precision." Her words capture the essence of a man whose commitment to artistic excellence and integrity will be deeply missed.
Clements joined The Guardian in August 1993, succeeding Edward Greenfield as the paper's chief music critic, thanks to a personal recommendation from the late Alfred Brendel. His deep understanding of contemporary music was evident in every review he penned for the publication, covering an expansive range of genres and styles.
A masterful voice in his own right, Clements' unique perspective and unflinching commitment to artistic integrity earned him the respect of his peers and a loyal following among readers. His unwavering love for music transcended generations and genres, as he championed lesser-known composers like Harrison Birtwistle and Mark-Anthony Turnage, helping to bring their work into the spotlight.
Clements' own musical journey began at an early age, when a chance encounter with Pierre Boulez's work sparked a lifelong passion. This led him to recall every concert he had ever attended – a testament to his encyclopedic knowledge of classical music.
Throughout his career, Clements demonstrated an unapologetic willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and defend his artistic convictions. His affection for solo piano music was particularly evident in his glowing praise of the late Romanian pianist Radu Lupu.
Beneath his sometimes gruff exterior lay a kind, warm, and generous individual who inspired loyalty among his colleagues. Clements' passion extended far beyond music to include birds, butterflies, and orchids – a reflection of his unique personality.
In a statement, Katharine Viner, The Guardian's editor-in-chief, praised Clements as a writer "who wrote about classical music with the utmost passion and precision." Her words capture the essence of a man whose commitment to artistic excellence and integrity will be deeply missed.
I mean, 75 is old for being a music critic but he just kept on going strong and giving us the most amazing insights into classical music. His love for solo piano music is still making me want to get out there and find some Radu Lupu records 
. The thing that gets me is how he was so passionate about music it's like it took over his life, but in a good way! He had this amazing ability to make you see things from a different perspective. I'm gonna miss reading his stuff when he passed away 
.
. I've always admired his unique voice and perspective on classical music - he had this way of making me want to explore new genres and composers. His love for solo piano music is still a major influence on my own taste in music 
. I also loved how he didn't shy away from defending what he believed in, even if it meant going against the grain 
. He'll be deeply missed by music lovers around the world. Can we give him a virtual applause for all his amazing work? 
I just heard the news about Andrew Clements' passing... so sad 
. 75 is still young, you know? He was like a music encyclopedia for us, always sharing his love for classical music with us. Loved how he didn't sugarcoat his opinions, but at the same time, had such respect for other artists & their styles. You could tell he genuinely cared about music & its power to bring people together 
. R.I.P. Andrew, we'll miss you 
I'M STILL SHOCKED THAT ANDREW CLEMENTS IS GONE!!! HE WAS LIKE A ROCK FOR CLASSICAL MUSIC FANS FOR DECADES, ALWAYS STANDING TALL WITH HIS EXPERT OPINIONS AND UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO ARTISTIC INTEGRITY. I REMEMBER READING HIS REVIEWS AND FEELING LIKE I WAS GETTING THE LOWDOWN ON SOMETHING REAL SPECIAL 
HE HAD THIS WAY OF MAKING EVEN THE MOST COMPLEX MUSIC SEEMAccessible, YOU KNOW? PLUS, IT'S SO COOL THAT HE HAD A DEEP LOVE FOR PIERRE BOUlez'S WORK - I'M GOING TO HAVE TO CHECK OUT MORE OF HIS CONCERTS NOW! ANYWAY, I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO ANDREW CLEMENTS FOR ALL THE MUSIC MEMORIES YOU GAVE US 
. And don't get me wrong, Clements was a legend and all, but I think The Guardian's been a bit too soft on him – 3 decades is a long time to be clinging to the same old style 
.
he had this way of making classical music sound cool again, introduced me to so many new composers I never would've discovered otherwise 
also loved how genuine and humble he came across in interviews, felt like you were getting straight to the point with him 
anyhoo, his legacy will live on through all the amazing music critics he inspired 
Anyway, I loved how he'd go on these rambles about music and just get so passionate about it 
His writing was like a warm hug for your soul 
You could tell he actually LOVED music (and birds and butterflies... who knew?! 
) RIP Andrew Clements, dude 
it's crazy to think he started out playing piano at a young age and ended up becoming one of the most respected music critics of all time 
his love for music knew no bounds & he brought so many amazing composers to our attention 
remember that time he raved about Radu Lupu's solo piano? pure magic 
. Will miss the critiques, but glad to see younger critics carrying the torch 
"The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds" 
This is how music critics like Andrew Clements leave an indelible mark on our lives. His legacy will live on through his writings and the countless lives he touched with his passion for classical music. 
... his writing style was so unique, I used to read his reviews over coffee every weekend 
rest in peace, Andrew Clements 
It's a shame he's no longer with us to share his insights on new music emerging. I'm sure his legacy will live on through all the musicians and music lovers he inspired over the years 
anyway i remember reading one of his reviews on debussy's piano music back in the day and it totally changed my perspective on the composer idk what kind of impact he had on you but he's def leaving a huge hole in the music world 
I'm so sad to hear that Andrew Clements has left us 
. Rest in peace, Andrew