Charles Hubert Hastings Parry was a British composer and musicologist known for his contributions to English music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here are some interesting facts about him and his choral composition "I Was Glad":
Early Life and Education: Parry was born on February 27, 1848, in Bournemouth, England. He showed an early aptitude for music and began composing at a young age. He received his formal musical education at Eton College and then at Oxford University, where he studied under some notable composers and musicians.
Academic Career: After completing his education, Parry had a successful career as a musicologist and educator. He was appointed Professor of Music at the University of Oxford in 1900 and held the position until 1908. During this time, he contributed significantly to the study of music history and theory.
Influence on English Music: Parry played a pivotal role in the revival of English music. He was a leading figure in the English Musical Renaissance, a movement that sought to establish English music as a distinctive and respected tradition. His compositions, including "I Was Glad," were instrumental in achieving this goal.
"I Was Glad": One of Parry's most famous compositions, "I Was Glad," is a choral anthem that he wrote in 1902 for the coronation of King Edward VII. The piece is notable for its grandeur and majestic sound, making it a popular choice for royal and state occasions.
Royal Connection: Parry's association with the British monarchy extended beyond his composition for the coronation. He was knighted by Queen Victoria in 1898 and later appointed a Knight Commander of the Victorian Order (KCVO) by King Edward VII in 1902.
Hymn Tunes: In addition to larger choral works, Parry also composed numerous hymn tunes, some of which are still widely used in churches today. His hymn tune "Jerusalem" is particularly famous and has become an unofficial national anthem of England.
Legacy: Charles Hubert Hastings Parry's contributions to English music continue to be celebrated. His works are regularly performed, and he is regarded as a significant figure in the history of British classical music. The "Parry Society" was established to promote and preserve his music and legacy.
Death and Commemoration: Parry passed away on October 7, 1918, during the final months of World War I. He is buried in St. Paul's Cathedral, London, and his grave is a place of pilgrimage for music enthusiasts. In 1998, on the centenary of his knighthood, his contribution to music was recognized with a memorial in Westminster Abbey's Musicians' Corner.
Charles Hubert Hastings Parry's enduring impact on English music and his composition "I Was Glad" continue to be celebrated, and his music remains an important part of the choral and classical repertoire.