To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of Britainâ??s greatest composers Sir Edward Elgar renowned Elgar scholar J.P.E. Harper-Scott casts new and frequently surprising light on Elgar chronicling his rise to the forefront of early twentieth-century modernism in this concise and absorbing volume. Hailed by the June 2007 BBC Music Magazine as 'possibly the best first stop for learning about Elgar's life ' this fascinating and accessible history is suitable for both students and Elgar enthusiasts alike. J.P.E. Harper-Scott takes a combative swipe at many of the critical myths and prejudices that have attached themselves to the figure of Elgar revealingboth a surprisingly elusive personality and a deeper often darker message within his works. Questions answered include How did the son of a provincial piano tuner rise to international fame? Was the English countryside the principle inspiration for Elgar's music? Was this moustachioed red-blooded imperialist all that he seemed? And more!

In this vivid portrait Bruce Wood illuminates the sometimes shadowy figure of Henry Purcell richly evoking the atmosphere of 17th-century England - full of intrigues and plots. By interweaving the events during an unparalleled period of social and political change with the life and music of Purcell Wood creates an account of this elusive English genius that is hard to put down.'The quality of the writing the concision colour and grittiness of the narrative sets this book apart from all others on the subject.' Professor Sir Curtis Price