29/01/2026
Keith Cole (1938–2026): The Maestro
RAMSGATE – Keith Cole, the composer / musician, and beloved educator known affectionately as "Keefy," passed away leaving a legacy defined by Music. He was 87.
Born in Northfield, Birmingham, on December 11, 1938, Keith’s path was set early by his mother, Jessie, a silent-film pianist. Gifted Keith, who developed perfect pitch at a young age, won a scholarship to the Birmingham Conservatoire at fifteen, where he won the F. Miller Prize for composition. He continued his ascent at the Royal Northern College in Manchester, becoming a contemporary of greats like John Ogdon and winning the prestigious Edward Hecht Prize, leading to his work being performed by the Hallé Orchestra.
Despite his academic pedigree, Keith was a man of the people. He famously rode his motorbike into Ramsgate for a summer season, a move that led him to his neighbor and future wife of 59 years, Janina. Together, they built a home that "breathed music," where Keith was as likely to be found fixing a roof as writing a Musical.
Keith’s professional life was a rich tapestry. Whether composing for the Canterbury Cathedral Mystery Plays—and receiving a cheeky "thank you" note signed by "God" (actor Marius Goring)—or improvising Spanish guitar trills on a whim, his talent was boundless. Yet, he remained modest, often claiming he had "done so little" while his performances of Rachmaninov moved nurses and neighbors alike to tears.
In his later years, Keith faced Alzheimer’s with a trademark humor that "lit up a room." Though "the fog" descended, music remained his bridge to the world. He leaves behind his wife, Janina; children Jane, Megan, Po, and Tris.
In a final act of friendship, his ashes will be scattered on the Malverns with his lifelong friend, Tony Miller. As Shakespeare wrote, and Keith lived: "In black ink my love may still shine bright." That ink—his sheet music— His music is currently being adapted into a new musical stage production.
The house is quiet, but the music remains.
The funeral will take place on Monday 9th February at Thanet Crematoirum.
The service will start at 11am.
Flowers are welcome, donations TBC. For all enquiries please call 01843 852761
