by Paul Spicer Seren Books 1 85411 233 3Composer, organist, teacher, writer and broadcaster, Herbert Howells (1892-1983) is a major figure in English music. His three choral masterpieces, Hymnus Paradisi, the Stabat Mater and Missa Sabrinensis, are classics, while his ecclesiastical music - quite possibly sung daily in Britain - is the greatest contribution to Anglican church music of the twentieth century. Born in humble circumstances in rural Gloucestershire, Howells held posts at Salisbury Cathedral, the Royal College of Music, St John's Cambridge and St Paul's Girls School. He was taught by Brewer, Stanford and Parry; a fellow student of... more
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