sir thomas beecham (born st helens, lancashire, 29 april 1879; died london, 8 march 1961) was an english conductor. he was one of the most famous conductors of his time. he came from a very rich family and was able to use his money to pay orchestras that he formed. he formed the london philharmonic orchestra and the royal philharmonic orchestra. he was especially well known for conducting the music of mozart as well as that of his friend delius.