Ian Fraser, famed composer who worked alongside Julie Andrews, dead at 81

Ian Fraser, an Emmy award-winning composer and longtime conductor known for his collaborations with Julie Andrews, died of cancer at his Los Angeles home Friday. He was 81.

Fraser’s daughter Tiffany told the Los Angeles Times that he died “very peacefully.” Andrews was on the phone with several of Fraser’s relatives shortly before he died, his daughter said.

“He was just an amazing person surrounded by family,” Tiffany told The Times.

Fraser, who won 11 Emmy awards and served as musical director of the award show on three occasions during a storied career, was perhaps best known for his work alongside Andrews on several albums and her 1970s variety show.

He was serving his 10th term as the governor of the Television Academy of Music when he died Friday.

“Ian will be remembered by all who had the great fortune to know and work with him as a man of great taste and talent, intelligence and warmth, and a wonderful sense of humor and fun,” Bruce Rosenblum, chairman and CEO of the Television Academy of Music, said in a statement.

Fraser was born Aug. 23, 1933, in Hove, England. His survivors include his wife, Judee; children and grandchildren.

A complete obituary will follow at latimes.com/obits.

Follow @JamesQueallyLAT for breaking news