Bøger i Music in Britain, 1600-1900 serien

Lectures by leading Victorian conductor and composer reveal much about musical life at the time.An annotated critical edition of twelve lectures by William Sterndale Bennett [1816-75], the foremost English musician of the mid-Victorian period, principal of the Royal Academy, and conductor of the Philharmonic Society. Delivered at the London Institution and Cambridge University between 1858 and 1871, they are valuable both as representative of the Victorian understanding of musical history, and for Bennett's astute comments on the state of music andmusical life at the time. They include admonishments to the British government for failing to offer adequate financial support to the art; interesting and often surprising views on many contemporary composers; and discourses on his own experiences as a professional musician. The lectures are presented with annotations which identify the persons, institutions and compositions referred to in the text. An extensive introduction sets the lectures in context and reflects on their significance to English musical history and to Bennett's personal career. NICHOLAS TEMPERLEY is Professor of Music Emeritus at the University of Illinois.

New research throws light on the history of the viol after Purcell, including its revival in the late eighteenth century through Charles Frederick Abel.

This monograph investigates the promotion and consumption of high musical culture among leisured society in Victorian London, by focusing on the activities of the concert manager John Ella and his Musical Union.

This book refutes the notion that British composers in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century lacked literary credentials.

A survey of the huge importance of Thomas Tallis, the `Father of Church Music', on Victorian musical life.

New research throws light on the history of the viol after Purcell, including its revival in the late eighteenth century through Charles Frederick Abel.

This comprehensive re-evaluation of John Stainer's life and work demonstrates that there was a great deal more to admire beyond The Crucifixion.