Definition

Proper noun: * Sir Arthur Sullivan: An English composer best known for his collaboration with the librettist W.S. Gilbert, creating a series of highly successful comic operettas (also known as Savoy Operas) in the late 19th century. He was also a respected composer of serious music, including hymns, orchestral works, and a grand opera.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The music for The Pirates of Penzance was composed by Arthur Sullivan.
  • Arthur Sullivan's partnership with W.S. Gilbert is legendary in musical theatre history.
  • Beyond the operettas, Arthur Sullivan wrote the hymn "Onward, Christian Soldiers."

Advanced Usage

• "The Gilbert and Sullivan operas": This phrase collectively refers to the body of work created by the partnership of W.S. Gilbert (words) and Arthur Sullivan (music).
  • Our local theatre company specializes in performing the Gilbert and Sullivan operas.

Variants and Related Words

• Sullivan: A common shortened reference to the composer.
  • The score is by Sullivan.
• Gilbert and Sullivan: The inseparable pairing used as a compound term to describe their collaborative works and style.
  • He has a passion for Gilbert and Sullivan.

Synonyms

• Composer
• Musician

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "A Gilbert and Sullivan style": Used to describe something that is light, comic, witty, and intricately patterned, reminiscent of their operettas.
  • The political satire had a very Gilbert and Sullivan style to it.

Noun

1. English composer of operettas who collaborated with the librettist William Gilbert (1842-1900)