Howells's Sonata No 1 in E major, Op 18, is in one long span divided into three 'moods' with themes common to all sections, an original concept for sonata form.
Composition History
The period around the end of the Great War was creatively rich for Howells, during which he wrote many chamber works, including those on this album.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Elgar advised a young Herbert Howells to 'study George Frederick Handel, now and all your life' regarding writing for string orchestra.
Composer Biography
Herbert Howells, like many English composers, was drawn to the sound of stringed instruments.
Composer Biography
Herbert Howells, despite his training and early career in church music, wrote very little sacred music during the period of these compositions.
Compositional Technique
Howells was fascinated by musical form, often using long phrases and fluent counterpoint, and sought new experiments in form.
Composition History
The Sonata No 3 in E minor, Op 38, was written in 1923 after Howells saw the Rockies for the first time, inspiring music that reflects both English and foreign landscapes.
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