Benjamin Britten The Spiritual Dimension [Hardcover]

The importance of the things spiritual in Britten's work has long been ignored. In his book Graham Elliott examines this importance in his analysis of the composer's choice and treatment of subjects, and his use of musical influences-- especially plainsong--which have a direct association with spirituality.

Part I
1. Introduction
2. Boyhood
3. Two Churchmen
4. Sir Peter Pears
5. Summary
Part II
6. Plainsong and Hymn Tunes
7. Liturgical Music
8. Parable Music I
9. Parable Music II
10. Parable Music III
11. Parable Music IV
Conclusion

This book contributes significantly to our understanding of influences on the composer and some of his musical source material, and provides at a minimum insights deserving further exploration and considerationElliott's volume is an interesting and worthwhile exploration of the importance of those elements. --G. Nicholas Bullat,The Diapason

This book is commended to conductors not only for the unique perspective on the music of this important twentieth-composer, but also to enhance the preparation and performance of Britten's works. --Choral Journal