critical editions

Engraving and Critical Editions

The art of engraving is crucial to the performance of music. The implications of the visual elements of music notation are able to drastically change the quality of the performance. As Engraver Sibelius, Dorico are able to be utilised.

Critical Editing is the process of research, analysis and engraving that results in the creation of an edition of a work which is accompanied by a detailed editorial method and critical commentary placing the work within its historical context providing key information on performance practice as well as identifying errors or misprints between sources and justifying the editorial decisions taken.

Let God Arise - William Lawes

"Let God Arise" opens with a stirring call to worship, derived from Psalm 68:1. The  text was likely chosen for its assertive, triumphant imagery, resonating well with the Royalist sentiments during the tumultuous times of the Civil War. This work stands as a powerful testament to the composer's artistic legacy and the turbulent era in which he lived. 

A Critical Commentary can be found for this edition within this edition

Links to the Edition:

IMSLP

CPDL

Lord Let Me Know Mine End - Matthew Locke

Locke's Verse Anthem, Lord Let Me Know Mine End, was composed in the mid-17th century for the court of Charles the II. Locke's importance in restoration england cannot be understated his forthright personality meant he was often at odds with those he was working for. Nevertheless Locke's personal friendship with Samuel Pepys allows us to glimpse into the musical world in London at this time.

A full Critical Commentary can be found for this edition. This includes notes on the Performance Practice as well as contextual history of this work.

Links to the Edition:

IMSLP

CPDL

Bethlehem Down - Peter Warlock

Warlock's Bethlehem Down is a haunting carol, filled with melancholic modal harmony. The creation myth of this Christmas staple is full of suitably Warlockian debauchery with his co-conspirator Bruce Blunt.

This Edition was created from the original manuscript published in warlock's hand in the Daily Telegraph on Saturday the 24th of December 1927.

Notable Changes in this edition is the Bb on Beat 6 of Bar 6(14) in the Bass Part. In all modern editions this is a B natural however it is clear from the original manuscript in the Daily telegraph a Bb was intended.

Links to the Edition:

IMSLP

CPDL

Works in Progress

Hymn à la Paix - Augusta Holmés

Written for the Florence Exhibition in 1890, Hymn à la paix is a large orchestral and choral work that is full of the typical Holmés flourishes. 

Not Unto Us, O Lord - Matthew Locke

The Lord is My Light - William Lawes

Turn Thy Face From My Sins - Matthew Locke