English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872- 1958) is a must on a general music appreciation list. Many have heard his works, yet may not be familiar with the name. A diverse composer of symphonies, films scores, chamber and choral music; Vaughan Williams also enjoyed the privilege of having his works recorded extensively. One of the most famous of these is a recording of A London Symphony by the Cincinnati Orchestra in 1941. His style is nostalgic and classic. It's simultaneously old and new! His music is influenced by the emotionalism of the romantic era and the broadness of modern orchestration. With steadfast patriotism, Ralph Vaughan Williams always remained a deeply rooted English composer.
Through his fascination with folk tunes, listeners can experience the beauty and richness of his English homeland and culture. The extensive collection folk tune settings and harmonizations of Vaughan Williams have served the church well as hymn tunes. For example, KINGFOLD is a beautiful setting for the text of No Tramp Of Soldiers' Marching Feet LSB #444. Also, SINE SOMINE is the setting used with For All The Saints and numerous other hymns.
Here are a few links to pieces that I love. The Clarinet piece is one I happened to perform (this is not my recording) years ago. I perhaps should pull it out and play it again.
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