Analysis of five works by Herbert Howells, with reference to features of the composer’s style

As much research into Herbert Howells to date has focused on the historical aspects of his life and works, the prime intention of this study is to reveal more about Howells’ compositional processes. With this in mind there are two focuses that enable this investigation. Firstly, the analysis of five contrasting works, providing an understanding of how each composition is constructed. These works are Elegy for Viola, String Quartet and String Orchestra, Blessed are the Dead, Hymnus Paradisi, Take Him, Earth, for Cherishing and Stabat Mater. The second objective is the identification of the more important fingerprints of Howells’ musical style. This will cover harmonic, rhythmic, and melodic features, as well as matters relating to orchestration