The Sonatina on this album reflects Howells' creative indecision, as the pianist Matthew Schellhorn compiled this version from the composer's varied preferences across ten different manuscript versions.
Performer Biography
Matthew Schellhorn, the pianist on this album, is a prominent performer of new music, having given over 140 premieres and commissioned many works.
Composer Biography
Howells' piano lessons were paid for by a generous local landowner, allowing him to study with the cathedral organist in Gloucester, Herbert Brewer.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Herbert Howells claimed he could never write without a person or place in mind, often naming his pieces after significant locations or individuals.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Howells sought to reconcile the 'High Art' of his conservatoire training with his working-class musical roots, drawing on the folk music of his childhood.
Composer Biography
Herbert Howells, the composer, was the youngest of eight children and began playing the family piano with the help of his eldest sister.
Compositional Technique
Howells' music often synthesized the poetic miniatures of Walter de la Mare, a poet and close friend, with the Elizabethan musical miniatures of composers like Byrd and Tallis.
