William Wordsworth (1908-1988) was an English composer resident in Scotland.

William Wordsworth was born in London. A descendant of the poet’s brother Christopher, he studied music with Sir Donald Tovey in Edinburgh. Much of his life was spent in England but he settled in Inverness-shire in 1961, where he was inspired by the ever-changing Scottish landscape.

He studied harmony and counterpoint under George Oldroyd from 1921 to 1931, continuing his study with Donald Tovey at Edinburgh University from 1934 to 1936. In anticipation of conscientious objection he voluntarily began work on the land in 1939, and this role was later made a condition of exemption from military service by his tribunal. He was involved in the formation of the Scottish Branch of the Composers’ Guild of Great Britain in 1966, of which he was chairman until 1970. He used traditional rhythm patterns in his largely tonal compositions, and composed over 100 works. These include six symphonies, six string quartets and numerous vocal and instrumental pieces.

He died at Kingussie in Scotland.