Havergal Brian, the composer, wrote 32 symphonies, with the last 21 composed between the ages of 80 and 92.
Historical Context
The competitive English choral festivals, particularly in Morecambe, encouraged leading composers like Havergal Brian to write new works before World War I.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Havergal Brian, the composer, frequently set texts by Shakespeare, Shelley, Blake, and Herrick, which account for about half of his extant choral songs.
Compositional Technique
Havergal Brian's piano writing in his choral songs is often demanding, featuring wide leaps and awkward passages that require unusual dexterity.
Composition History
Many of Havergal Brian's choral songs were written for women's or children's voices due to male choristers departing for military service during World War I.
Composer Biography
William Blake, the poet, was set to music by Havergal Brian more frequently than any other poet, with fourteen choral settings and three solo songs.
Critical Reception
It is possible that some of Havergal Brian's choral songs on this album are world premieres, as nothing is known of their performance history after publication.
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