The Music of Herbert Howells

Herbert Howells (1892-1983) was, during a long and active career, one of this country's most prominent composers. Much of his music, particularly his compositions for choir and organ, have found a place in regular repertoire; but there is as yet relatively little serious study of his music. "Howells Studies" sets out to change this situation, making a major contribution to the study of this fascinating composer. It will comprise a collection of essays by 14 (possibly 16) scholars addressing a range of aspects and issues relating to the composer and his work. The aim is to open the subject up by bringing to bear a variety of different intellectual approaches and interests. Some of the contributors are established scholars of the composer and of English music of his times; some are performers noted for their work with Howells's music; some are current or recently finished doctoral students, exploring the composer's work afresh.

The Howells Society has expressed a willingness in principle to assist the publication financially, should this be desirable. The editors will put a formal proposal to the Society at its annual meeting this coming autumn.

The essays have not been commissioned to deal with the subject in a systematic way. Rather, contributors have been invited to write on aspects of Howells's life and works that interest them. Nonetheless, the coverage of the book will be wide-ranging, with all aspects of the composer's prolific output being addressed and many of the issues that the work raises being probed. Our intention is that the book will ultimately be organised in thematic sections, but we are awaiting the final arrival of the essays in order to decide how best this should be done.