The EPSS competitions for composers began in 1992 to celebrate the bicentenary of Shelley's birth and to increase interest in English Art Song.
Historical Context
English Art Song has historically been considered a 'poor relation' compared to German Lieder, French Mélodies, and Italian Arias, with Hubert Parry noting, 'The English prefer foreign music!'
Recording & Production
This album, "Sappho, Shropshire & Super-Tramp," contains songs by 8 composers from the English Poetry & Song Society (EPSS) who have won prizes in past competitions.
Composer Biography
Ivor Gurney (1890-1937) was committed to an asylum in 1922, diagnosed with manic-depressive disorder, and remained there until his death.
Composer Biography
Ivor Gurney (1890-1937), a composer and poet, served as a signaller in the trenches of the Great War, where he was wounded and gassed.
Recording & Production
This recording was made possible by financial support from the composers and the Association of English Singers and Speakers.
Compositional Technique
Ivor Gurney's "Seven Sappho Songs" are framed by the first and last songs in B major, which evoke nostalgia, while the other five songs express anticipation or intense passion.
