Westport Public Library MOVIE & MUSIC Blog

As we approach the 50th anniversary of the death of Ralph Vaughan Williams, classical music groups and organizations will be showcasing his music. This venerable British composer, conductor and organist, studied at Cambridge University, the Royal College of Music and with Max Bruch in Berlin and Maurice Ravel in Paris. He and Gustav Holst were the prime movers in the revitalization of music in England.

He looked to his roots in his championing of original English folktunes that may be seen in his songs, such as "Linden Lea" and "Silent Noon". His music covers almost every genre and was written for both professionals and amateurs. His use of color and melody are quite prominent in his symphonic and big choral works.

His empathy for the persecuted and his belief in social justice led him to help German refugees prior to World War II. He devoted himself to the Home Office Committee for the Release of Interned Alien Musicians during the war. Like many others who disagreed with the policies of the Third Reich, his music was banned.

If you are wish to learn more about this composer, the library has Ursula Vaughan Williams' R.V.W. : A Biography of Ralph Vaughan Williams. A sampling of his music includes Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Orchestral Favourites, Phantasy Quintet and Symphonies 1-9.