George Lascelles KBE
7th Earl of Harewood
Born London 7th Feb 1923, died Harewood House, Leeds 11th July 2011.
Founder of Opera North, Artistic Director of Leeds Triennial (later biennial) Musical Festival 1958-74.
George Lascelles, 7th Earl of Harewood from 23rd May 1947 until his death, played a significant role in the development of musical activity in Leeds and nationally. Lord Harewood founded Opera Magazine in 1950 and was the editor of Kobbe's Complete Opera Book and Kobbe's Pocket Opera Book which he co-edited with his step-son Michael Shmith. Lord Harewood's career in opera management began at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden where he served on the board of directors(1951- 53 and 1969-72) and as controller of opera planning (1953- 60). Lord Harewood served as artistic director of Edinburgh International Festival from 1961- 65.
From 1972 - 84 he held the post of managing director of English National Opera and in 1977 established the new company - English National Opera North (later Opera North) at Leeds Grand Theatre.