About Howells' Paradise

Credit: Johnathan Clinch

British music expert Dr Jonathan Clinch explores the fascinating context behind a piece often considered Herbert Howells’ masterpiece, Hymnus Paradisi, premiered at the Three Choirs Festival in 1950, and outlines the findings of his latest research. Originally intended as a requiem for his young son, Howells transformed the work into an affirmation of life by taking on a remarkable web of influences.