Farrenc, Louise (1804 – 1875)

[Roger Webb]

While this thread's still up, I'll mention two other fe... erm, composers , I'd be glad to hear views on.

Ruth Watson Henderson's Missa Brevis was played on 'Through the Night' this morning at about 0405 GMT and Imogen Holst is next week's 'Composer of the Week'.

I don't think I've heard RWH but I like what I've heard of Imogen Holst's music....although we haven't got much to go on - a few choral pieces and an outstanding disc of her chamber music on Court Lane Music CLM 37601. The early Phantasy Qt is typical of when it was written (1928) and shows the influence of VW and, to a lesser extent (!) of her father. It's fascinating to hear the influence of Britten (she was his assistant at Aldeburgh later on) and the absolute masterpiece is her String Qnt (1982)....the final movt. Theme and Vars a very moving portrait of the Thames from source to sea, as it passes places connected with Gustav's life.

Last time I was in Aldeburgh I searched out Imogen's studio/bungalow, hidden away in Church La, which is available for bona fide researchers to stay in. I'm looking forward to her CotW.