Mike Batt has been composing music for six decades – everything from movie scores to popular songs and TV themes – and he still sounds incredibly enthusiastic. He’s just released his first full symphony, a piece inspired by Ukraine. Given the current events, it begs the question: what prompted him to create this work now?
He’s been composing symphonic music his entire life. It all started when he was around ten years old and spent six months’ worth of pocket money – 26 shillings – on a recording of Schubert’s Ninth Symphony, which he adored. Then, just two months later, he discovered the Beatles and felt the same incredible joy. He says that feeling hasn’t changed since.
Mike Batt, a musician from Southampton who taught himself to play, started his career performing in pub bands. When he was only 22 years old, he got the opportunity to compose the theme song for a new children’s television program called The Wombles. He took the job because he needed the money. He remembers being shown around the set by animator Ivor Wood and seeing all of the unusual, nine-inch tall characters.
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Batt gave up his upfront payment to own the rights to the characters, which allowed him to create seven more Wombles songs and albums. This established him in the music industry, giving him a rare opportunity to balance writing television music with larger-scale orchestral compositions – something he’s continued to do ever since.
He composed theme tunes for popular shows like Pebble Mill at One and Swap Shop, as well as Seaside Special and Big Break. Notably, his theme song for Big Break – “The Snooker Song” – will be featured in the show’s upcoming revival, with him now singing it instead of Captain Sensible.
He attributes his consistent success to growing confidence and a sense of personal authenticity. He explains that his character and motivations shine through in his work, and that his experience composing for television ultimately fueled his desire to be a respected songwriter.
Right as if on purpose, he began playing “Bright Eyes,” the song he wrote for the 1978 movie Watership Down. He shared a story about someone approaching him at a party, simply to express their gratitude for the song and how much it had impacted their life. He said he’ll always remember that encounter and never underestimate the power of his music.
Mike Batt is a versatile musician who looks back on his career with satisfaction. He admits ‘Bright Eyes’ might not be his best song, but he’s okay with being remembered for it – and for composing the theme tune to The Wombles! He’s perfectly content with that legacy.
It’s all just music.”
- Mike Batt’s Symphony No 1 Ukraine is available to buy now on Dramatico Records
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2026-06-15 19:44