An Imperishable Heritage: British Choral Music from Parry to Dyson: A Study of Selected Works

Choral works by Vaughan Williams, Parry, Stanford, Finzi, Bliss, Rubbra and Dyson form the focus for discussion in this survey of a genre that reflects the chief tradition of music in England over the centuries. This line-up of composers reflects their significance in the renaissance of British music. The rehabilitation of British music began with Parry and Stanford. Vaughan Williams assisted in its emancipation from continental models, while Finzi, Bliss, Rubbra and Dyson flourished in its independence.The choral works of these composers are examined in particular relation to the autograph manuscripts. The latter form an unparalleled record of the compositional process and illuminate the published versions now heard by their revelation of earlier intentions. As a result, this book identifies for the first time instances of similarity and imitation, continuities and connections that have hitherto remained hidden.