The music world mourns the loss of Simon House, the genre-defying violinist and keyboardist renowned for his work with Hawkwind and David Bowie, who has passed away at the age of 76.

Simon House, born on 29 August 1948 in Nottingham, was a classically trained violinist whose career spanned the avant-garde fringes of rock, prog, and electronic music. His death on 25 May 2025 marks the end of a remarkable era in experimental sound.

House's early musical journey began in London during the 1960s, where he immersed himself in the countercultural scenes of Notting Hill and Ladbroke Grove. He first gained prominence with the psychedelic-prog band High Tide, where his electrified violin became a defining feature of their sound. Encouraged by guitarist Tony Hill to switch from bass to violin, House's innovative use of effects transformed the instrument into a wailing, expressive force within the band's sonic landscape.

Following his tenure with High Tide, House joined the Third Ear Band, contributing to the soundtrack of Roman Polanski's 1971 film "Macbeth." His work during this period showcased his ability to blend classical sensibilities with experimental rock, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

In 1974, House became a pivotal member of Hawkwind, a band synonymous with the space rock genre. His contributions on albums like "Hall of the Mountain Grill" and "Warrior on the Edge of Time" infused the band's sound with a rich tapestry of synthesizers, Mellotron, and electric violin. House's classical training and avant-garde approach added depth and complexity to Hawkwind's cosmic explorations, solidifying his reputation as a sonic innovator.

House's talents caught the attention of David Bowie, leading to his involvement in the 1978 Isolar II world tour. He played violin, keyboard, and mandolin during this period, contributing to the album "Lodger," which celebrated its 46th anniversary on the day of his passing. House's work with Bowie further demonstrated his versatility and ability to adapt his classical roots to the evolving landscape of rock music.

Beyond his collaborations with Hawkwind and Bowie, House's career included work with artists such as Mike Oldfield, Japan, and Thomas Dolby. He also released several solo albums, showcasing his compositional prowess and continued exploration of electronic and progressive music.

Tributes have poured in from across the music community. Cleopatra Records described House as "a sonic architect who helped shape the sound of a generation," highlighting his ability to bring "depth, texture, and soul" to every project he touched. His daughter, Holly, confirmed his passing, though no cause of death has been disclosed.

Simon House's legacy is one of innovation and boundary-pushing artistry. His unique fusion of classical technique with experimental rock elements left an indelible mark on the music world. As fans and fellow musicians remember his contributions, House's influence continues to resonate, inspiring new generations to explore the limitless possibilities of sound.