Herbert Howells (17 October 1892 – 23 February 1983) was an English composer, organist and teacher whose output is closely associated with the Anglican choral tradition. Known for quietly intense lyricism and a distinctive harmonic language, he wrote sacred choral music, an important body of organ pieces and several larger sacred works. He received public honours during his lifetime including the Companion of Honour (CH) and the Order of the British Empire designation often rendered as CBE.

Life and career

Howells was born in Lydney, Gloucestershire, and spent much of his working life in London where he died in 1983. He studied and later taught at the Royal College of Music, an institution with which he remained closely associated as a teacher of composition and harmony. His professional roles also included work as an organist and as a composer for church services, and he became a central figure in English church music during the 20th century. Biographical accounts often note that personal events shaped the mood of some of his most celebrated works.

Musical character and style

Howells's music is often described as lyrical and modal, combining elements of English pastoralism, rich chromatic harmony and a fondness for expressive melodic lines. His choral writing favors close voicing, flexible phrase shapes and harmonies that move between tonal centers rather than relying on conventional cadential patterns. These qualities make his music particularly suited to cathedral acoustics and the Anglican liturgy.

Major works and liturgical settings

  • Hymnus Paradisi — a large-scale sacred work for choir and orchestra that brought him wide recognition.
  • Multiple settings of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis used in Evensong and cathedral services.
  • Organ music including two sets of three Psalm-Preludes and the notable piece often called Master Tallis's Testament.

Other pieces for choir, service settings and anthems remain in active use in parish and cathedral repertoires. Examples of his catalogue and further reading are available through resources such as publisher pages and specialized music libraries (archives).

Teaching and influence

As a teacher at the Royal College of Music, Howells influenced generations of British composers and church musicians. His approach combined rigorous craft with attention to vocal writing and liturgical practicality. Many cathedral directors and choirmasters have praised the way his music balances singability with harmonic depth. For analysis and commentary see scholarly studies and program notes available from conservatoires and choral societies (study resources, essays).

Howells's reputation rests on the high quality of his choral and organ output and its enduring presence in Anglican worship and concert programs. His blend of introspection and radiant choral sonorities has kept works such as Hymnus Paradisi and various service settings in regular performance. For recordings and modern editions consult discographies and publishers (recording lists, scores, further links).