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Guardian's Music Critic Andrew Clements Passes at 75

1/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Andrew Clements, The Guardian's classical music critic, died January 12, 2026, at age 75 after an illness.
He joined The Guardian in 1993 after a recommendation from Alfred Brendel for his understanding of contemporary music.
He championed composers Harrison Birtwistle and Oliver Knussen.
Health issues prevented live reviews since March 2025.
Katharine Viner, The Guardian's editor-in-chief, praised his passionate and precise writing.

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Story summary

Andrew Clements, The Guardian's classical music critic, died January 12, 2026, at age 75 after an illness.
He joined The Guardian in 1993 after a recommendation from Alfred Brendel for his understanding of contemporary music.
He championed composers Harrison Birtwistle and Oliver Knussen.
Health issues prevented live reviews since March 2025.
Katharine Viner, The Guardian's editor-in-chief, praised his passionate and precise writing.