Matthew Strachan

Matthew Strachan was a British composer, lyricist, and television writer, best known as the co-creator of the globally successful quiz show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?. His career spanned music for television, film, and the stage, earning him a BAFTA award and an International Emmy. Strachan's work on the iconic "Millionaire" theme and his contributions to programs like The National Lottery Draws made him a significant figure in British entertainment.

Early Life

Born in 1964, Matthew Strachan was the son of renowned broadcaster and writer Steve Race. He was educated at Bedales School, an independent school in Hampshire known for its arts focus. His early exposure to the entertainment industry through his father's work on programs like the BBC's My Music significantly influenced his career path. Strachan later honed his craft at the Royal Academy of Music, where he studied composition.

Career

Strachan's professional career began in music composition for television. A pivotal partnership was formed with television producer David Briggs, with whom he would later create his most famous work. Throughout the 1990s, Strachan composed music for numerous ITV and BBC programs, including the themes for the game show The Waiting Game and the Children's BBC series The 8:15 from Manchester. His prolific output also included work for corporate clients and advertising jingles. In 1998, in collaboration with Briggs and presenter Chris Tarrant, Strachan co-developed Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? for Celador, composing its instantly recognizable, suspenseful theme music. The show became a worldwide phenomenon, franchised in over 160 countries. Beyond "Millionaire," Strachan composed the famous "Lottery" theme "Imagine" and wrote for series such as The Slammer. He also ventured into musical theatre, writing songs for productions including The Great British Musical.

Filmography

Strachan's compositional work extended to film and television soundtracks. He provided music for the ITV drama series The Knock and the children's television show Mike and Angelo. His film credits include composing the score for the 1996 feature The Innocent Sleep, starring Michael Gambon and Rupert Graves. While not a performer, his music was integral to the identity of many programs, with his themes for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and The National Lottery being among the most heard on British television.

Personal Life

Matthew Strachan was married to writer Celia Strachan, with whom he had two children. He maintained a relatively private life despite his professional success. His father, Steve Race, was a well-known pianist, composer, and longtime presenter of the BBC radio show My Music. Strachan passed away in July 2021 after a short illness.

Awards and Recognition

For co-creating Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, Matthew Strachan received the BAFTA Award for Best Entertainment Program in 1999. The show's international success also earned him an International Emmy in the Popular Arts category. His iconic theme music for the program is recognized globally. In 2000, he and his co-creators were honored with the Royal Television Society Award for Best Entertainment Program.

Category:British composers Category:British television writers Category:BAFTA winners (people)