Sir Arthur Seymour Sullivan (13 May 1842 – 22 November 1900) was a prominent English composer renowned for his collaboration with dramatist W. S. Gilbert, creating 14 comic operas including celebrated works like "H.M.S. Pinafore," "The Pirates of Penzance," and "The Mikado." Born in London to a military bandmaster, Sullivan showed early musical talent, composing his first anthem at age eight. He was a soloist in the Chapel Royal choir and received the first Mendelssohn Scholarship at 14, enabling him to study at the Royal Academy of Music and later the Leipzig Conservatoire.

Sullivan's career began with acclaimed works such as incidental music for Shakespeare's "The Tempest" (1861), a ballet "L'Île Enchantée" (1864), and a symphony and cello concerto (1866). He supplemented his income by writing hymns, including "Onward, Christian Soldiers," and working as a church organist and teacher. His first comic opera, "Cox and Box" (1866), remains popular, and his partnership with Gilbert began with "Thespis" (1871) and the successful "Trial by Jury" (1875).

The duo's operas, known as the Savoy Operas, were performed at the Savoy Theatre built by impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte. Despite occasional disputes, Sullivan and Gilbert reunited for later works like "Utopia Limited" (1893) and "The Grand Duke" (1896). Sullivan also composed serious works, including the cantatas "The Martyr of Antioch" (1880) and "The Golden Legend" (1886), and his grand opera "Ivanhoe" (1891).

Sullivan's contributions to music extended beyond operas, with orchestral works, choral pieces, and incidental music for plays. He held various conducting and academic roles and was regarded as Britain's foremost composer at his death. His influence on musical theatre endures, with his works frequently performed and recorded. Sullivan's legacy is marked by his melodic prowess and the lasting popularity of his operatic collaborations with Gilbert.