Sir Edward Cuthbert Bairstow (1874–1946) was an English composer and organist noted for his contribution to Anglican church music. Born in Huddersfield, Bairstow was immersed in music from a young age, initially learning to play the piano and organ and later studying at the Royal College of Music in London. He held prestigious organist positions at Wigan Parish Church and Leeds Parish Church before becoming the organist at York Minster in 1913, a position he held until his death.

Bairstow's compositions, although not prolific, left a significant imprint on English choral repertoire, securing his legacy as one of the early twentieth century's key figures in church music. His work blends the late Romantic harmonic style with a distinctly English character, bringing depth and richness to liturgical texts. Among his most renowned choral pieces are anthems such as "Blessed city, heavenly Salem," "The Lamentation," and "Save us, O Lord." His career was later crowned with academic honors, including a professorship at Durham University, and was knighted for his services to music. Bairstow's influence endures in choirs across the globe, where his music is regularly performed in both religious services and concert settings, as reflected in recording collections like "The Choral Music of Sir Edward Bairstow" and "Our Father in the Heavens - Anthems by Sir Edward Bairstow."

Genres

Anglican Liturgy

Latest Release

Blessed city, heavenly Salem (Version for Choir and Orchestra)

Edward Bairstow•

Choir of Merton College, Oxford•

Britten Sinfonia

Single - Released May 5, 2023