Basil Harwood (1859–1949) was a highly regarded English composer and organist whose musical career spanned the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. Born in Woodhouse, Gloucestershire, Harwood showed a prodigious talent for music from an early age. He was educated at Charterhouse and later at Oxford, where he served as organist of Keble College. Harwood went on to hold several distinguished posts as an organist, including at Ely Cathedral, and became known for his contributions to Anglican church music as well as his skill as an organ recitalist and teacher.

Harwood's compositional output primarily focused on choral and organ works, capturing the essence of the English musical renaissance happening in his lifetime. His music is characterized by a blend of Romantic harmony with the traditional elements of English church music. Among his notable works are the anthem "O how glorious is the kingdom" and the Service in A-flat, as well as his organ sonatas, which reflect his virtuosity as an organist. His compositions are celebrated for their rigorous craftsmanship and emotional depth, contributing significantly to the corpus of Anglican liturgical music. Although not as widely recognized today as some of his contemporaries, Harwood's works remain integral to the traditional Anglican repertoire, with various recordings and volumes dedicated to his complete organ works ensuring that his musical legacy continues to be appreciated and preserved.

Genres

Anglican Liturgy

Victorian Britain

Latest Release

British Church Composers, Vol. 6: Basil Harwood

Basil Harwood

Album - 14 Tracks - Released November 9, 2005