A New English Music

<p> The turn of the 20th century was a time of great change in Britain. The empire saw its global influence waning and its traditional social structures challenged. There was a growing weariness of industrialism and a desire to rediscover tradition and the roots of English heritage. A new interest in English folk song and dance inspired art music which many believed was seeing a renaissance after a period of stagnation since the 18th century.</p><p> This book focuses on the lives of seven composers--Ralph Vaughan Williams Gustav Holst Ernest Moeran George Butterworth Philip Heseltine (Peter Warlock) Gerald Finzi and Percy Grainger--whose work was influenced by folk songs and early music. Each chapter provides an historical background and tells the fascinating story of a musical life.</p>