Two Georgian songwriters: Ivor Gurney and Peter Warlock

Abstract

This study was written to draw attention to a splendid collection of vocal music which is at present gathering dust on publishers' shelves. Ivor Gurney and Peter Warlock wrote the finest songs in the English language since the days of Purcell. Their work, at its best, can stand with the vocal music of Schubert, Brahms, Wolf, and the one or two other composers whose songs form the staple repetoire of our so broadminded recital singers; and not suffer in comparison. I am not really trying to prove this by logic. All I provide is a slightly inadequate guide to the territory and some sort of appreciation of both the composers and their work. I would much rather anyone energetic enough to read my study would, as a result, muster sufficient enthusiasm to try and prove what I say for themselves. If this does not happen then it is my fault, not the music's. In the meantime I must thank those people who were sympathetic enough to give me their interest, encouragement end very practical help: