Edmund Rubbra

[ahinton]

Well, not sure I'd go that far - she was involved, and was one of those who ideally would have spotted / corrected the error...

I didn't realise that she was involved, so it's clear that I should correct my error!...

[Serial_Apologist]

I really have to express my thanks to BBM for so graciously correcting me on my assessment of Rubbra's music as "sub-RVW". A week's concentrated listening can rectify many wrong preconceptions. I still think Rubbra's music would not have existed in its stylistic niche were it not for Vaughan Williams first having discovered much of the same harmonic language, especially adapted modes, of which I can hear several taken on board by the younger composer; but Rubbra also did many things with that language that clearly differed from its handling by Vaughan Williams, and that is the main point that distinguishes him in his own right, as not being in VW's shadow.

He was a randy old so-and-so, though, wasn't he! Still, it takes two to tangle, as Bristolians would say!

[ardcarp]

I still think Rubbra's music would not have existed in its stylistic niche were it not for Vaughan Williams first having discovered much of the same harmonic language, especially adapted modes, of which I can hear several taken on board by the younger composer

I hear a lot of Finzi, Holst and Butterworth too; but surely all that stuff was 'in the air' in Rubbra's early days, so maybe not solely down to RVW?

[richardfinegold]

I don't think Rubbra is a sub-RVW at all. Quite individual and yes very unjustly neglected composer. The Violin Sonata I hadn't heard before. Very worthwhile work.

I had the Hickox recording of the 9th years ago, don't know what happened to it. I don't remember much about it, I think someone else suggested to me something along the lines of "If you like RVW, you'll love Rubbra", and I didn't although all that I recall is it was a tonal work with a choral ending expressing fervent religiosity. ClassicsOnline offers a broad selection of Rubbra so I will review Rob E's suggestions and give one a listen on the drive home...

[EdgeleyRob]

I hear a lot of Finzi, Holst and Butterworth too; but surely all that stuff was 'in the air' in Rubbra's early days, so maybe not solely down to RVW?

Bax too.

[BBMmk2]

Bax too.

Absolutely, ER! :)