Charles Wood (15 June 1866 – 12 July 1926) was an Irish composer and teacher, best known for his Anglican church music. Though his output includes orchestral and instrumental works, it is his choral compositions for which Wood is most celebrated. Born in Armagh, Ireland, he was a student at the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied composition under Charles Villiers Stanford. Much like his mentor Stanford, Wood was a significant figure in the English Musical Renaissance at the turn of the 20th century, contributing richly to the repertoire of British choral music.

Wood's compositions have been a staple in cathedral and church choirs, particularly within the Anglican tradition. Among his most famous works are his settings for the Anglican service, including anthems, canticles and hymn tunes. His "St. Mark Passion" is particularly noted for its emotional depth and has earned a place in choral societies. Furthermore, his influence extended beyond his lifetime as a professor at Cambridge, where he taught many students who would go on to shape the British music scene. Wood also made significant contributions to the treasury of carols with his Christmas music, ensuring that his legacy endures particularly in the festive choral tradition. The release of anthologies such as "The Anthems of Charles Wood, Volumes 1 & 2," along with recordings like "From the Vaults of Westminster Cathedral," highlight the enduring relevance and reverence for his work in contemporary choral performance.

Genres

Anglican Liturgy

Irish Classical

Related Artists

Edward Bairstow

Henry Balfour Gardiner

Basil Harwood

George Dyson

Samuel Sebastian Wesley

John Stainer

Robert Lucas Pearsall

Charles Villiers Stanford

Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge

The Choir of Magdalen College, Oxford

St. Albans Cathedral Choir

Hans Leo Hassler

Latest Release

Soothing Classical Music Good As Children Lullabies 3

Charles Wood

Single - Released May 14, 2024