Herbert Howells, born in 1892, stands as a prominent figure in 20th-century English choral music, and his “Collegium Regale” represents a pinnacle of his achievement. Composed in 1944, Howells created this radiant masterpiece for King’s College, Cambridge, drawing on the rich Anglican choral tradition. Howells, deeply influenced by the English Tudor style and the architecture of English cathedrals, infuses “Collegium Regale” with his distinctive harmonic language and lush polyphony.
The work, structured as a set of canticles for the Anglican liturgy, exudes a profound sense of reverence and grandeur. Howells’ meticulous attention to textural detail, especially in the polyphonic interplay between the vocal lines, creates a sonorous tapestry that evokes the splendour of English cathedral music. The harmonic language, characterized by lush modulations and unexpected tonal shifts, adds a layer of emotional depth, reflecting Howells’ personal response to the turbulent times of World War II. “Collegium Regale” demonstrates Howells’ ability to bridge tradition and modernity, creating a timeless contribution to the choral repertoire that resonates with both contemplative serenity and majestic splendour.
The Listening Project Blog 