Boosey & Hawkes in the Spotlight
Five years strong
A recent ve-year analysis of Alexander Street musical scores usage
statistics shows that Boosey & Hawkes has maintained a remarkable
stature among the top ve musical scores publishers in Music Online:
Classical Scores Library. This achievement is especially noteworthy
considering that the collections boast nearly 170 other musical scores
publishing companies. The ongoing presence of Boosey & Hawkes in the top
ve list reects their commitment to providing invaluable musical content in
the ever-expanding landscape of musical scores.
This resource guide invites you to explore the profound impact of the top
ve Boosey & Hawkes scores within Music Online: Classical Scores Library,
Volume I.
Value Propositions for Musicians and Researchers
Both seasoned professional and budding musicians are drawn to the scores
provided by Boosey & Hawkes not only because of their practical application
in recitals and auditions, but for the profound contributions the works
offer. Going beyond performance tools, these works serve as gateways
to a deeper understanding of historical narratives, the interplay between
literature and music, and invaluable educational insights.
Boosey & Hawkes, the English music publishers, trace their roots back to
Thomas Boosey, a London bookseller with a penchant for handling music
since 1792. From a start with stock in Italian operas, with copyrights of
Bellini, Donizetti, and Verdi, the rm’s rich history encompasses a century of
musical evolution. The merger with William Henry Hawkes in 1930 marked
the union of two formidable competitors, expanding their global presence
and creating a musical powerhouse that endured mergers with Enoch and
Sons in 1927, Bote and Bock in 1996, and securing catalogues of major
composers like Richard Strauss, Stravinsky, Prokoev, and Rachmaninoff.
Find out more: Baker’s Biographical Dictionary of Musicians, vol. 1: Boosey
& Hawkes, edited by Nicholas Slonimsky, 1894-1995 (New York, NY:
Schirmer Reference, 2001). https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/
bibliographic_entity%7Creference_article%7C1002888123. Part of Music
Online: Classical Music Reference Library.
Boosey & Hawkes also represented notable women composers such as
Maude Valérie White (1855-1937), Maria Szymanowska (1789-1831), Louise
Héritte-Viardot (1841-1918), and Teresa Clotilde del Riego (1876-1968) among
others. This inclusion showcases the company’s history to representing
diverse voices and contributions in the world of classical music.
Top-used titles and their signicance
A recent analysis of the top used Boosey & Hawkes’ classical music scores
from Music Online: Classical Scores Library reveals not only highlights
the exceptional musical quality and captivating arrangements of these
compositions but also underscores their profound signicance within the
intricate narrative of classical music’s historical development.
A Music Merger: Booseys And Hawkes Now Amalgamated
Central Distribution. From South China Morning Post
(1903-1941); Aug 27, 1930; ProQuest.
Aaron Copland, a trailblazer in American
classical music, carved a distinctive and
accessible American voice with iconic
compositions like “Appalachian Spring”
and “Fanfare for the Common Man.” As
a pioneer of modernism, his groundbreaking work not
only bridged the avant-garde with accessibility but also
found resonance in inuential lm scores, showcasing his
versatility. Copland’s collaboration with Boosey & Hawkes
elevated his global impact, ensuring his widespread
recognition and enduring cultural relevance.
Cultural Reection
“Appalachian Spring Suite” skillfully captures the essence
of the American landscape by intricately weaving together
folk melodies, rhythmic patterns, and harmonic structures.
Copland reects the spirit and character of the American
heartland, making the composition a cultural reection of a
particular time and place in American history.
Artistic Innovation
Copland’s composition showcases artistic innovation,
demonstrating his ability to create a unique musical
language. The incorporation of folk elements into classical
music represents a departure from traditional European
styles, contributing to the development of an American
musical identity.
“Appalachian Spring Suite” by Copland plays a crucial role in introducing students and musicians to American classical music.
Listen to “Appalachian Spring” performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra:
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Crecorded_cd%7C2129722
Album found in Music Online: Listening
Aaron Copland’s “Appalachian Spring Suite”
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cscore%7C382308
Image of Aaron Copland, (Hulton-
Deutsch Collection/Corbis) part
of Music Online: Classical Music
Reference Library.
#
1
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” intertwines literature and music, offering
an intriguing subject for interdisciplinary exploration, while serving as a
captivating case study for researchers delving into the interplay of voice
and instruments in choral and orchestral realms.
Benjamin Britten, a groundbreaking composer, left an indelible mark on
classical music through his diverse creations, including operas, chamber works, and choral
pieces. His dedication to celebrating English musical heritage, blending literature and
folklore, is a cultural hallmark. Britten’s operas explore deep facets of human emotion and
societal challenges, providing poignant reections on our shared humanity.
Find out more: Baker’s Student Encyclopedia of Music, vol. 1: Britten, (Edward) Benjamin, Lord Britten of Aldeburgh,
edited by Laura Kuhn (New York: Schirmer Reference,1999).
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Creference_article%7C1003032516.
Part of Music Online: Classical Music Reference Library
Interdisciplinary Fusion
By adapting Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
into a musical form, Britten demonstrates a unique and
innovative approach exemplies a successful fusion of
literature and music.
Choral and Orchestral Exploration
Britten’s work serves as a captivating case study for
researchers interested in the interplay of voice and
instruments within choral and orchestral realms. The
composition showcases Britten’s mastery in orchestrating
vocal and instrumental elements, providing a rich source for
scholars and musicians to explore the intricate dynamics
between voices and instruments. This exploration contributes
to a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship involved in
creating complex, multi-dimensional musical works.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by Britten provides students and musicians with a unique
opportunity to study the intersections of literature and music. As an educational resource, the
composition encourages exploration of the complexities involved in adapting literary works
into musical forms, enriching academic understanding and appreciation.
Researchers can gain profound insights into an artist’s creative process through rich liner
notes. One notable instance found in Britten: The Red Cockatoo and other songs, performed
by Ian Bostridge, highlights a fascinating collaboration between Britten and poet William
Blake, which Britten refers to in his diary as “more an exercise than anything.” This intimate glimpse stands as a powerful
testament to the intricate interplay between literature and music in the composer’s journey, making these liner notes a
valuable asset for a deeper understanding of his artistic process.
Britten: The Red Cockatoo and other songs, performed by Ian Bostridge, Britten: The Red Cockatoo and other songs (Hyperion, 1995), 20 page(s).
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cliner_notes%7C918785
Listen to Benjamin Britten’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” performed by the Choir of Downside School
and others:
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/be%7Crecorded_cd%7Cumg_upc_00028942566323US
Album found in Music Online: Listening
Benjamin Britten’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cscore%7C309253
Image of Benjamin Britten with
collaborator Peter Pears. (Hulton-
Deutsch Collection/Corbis) from
Baker’s Student Encyclopedia of Music,
vol. 1, part of Music Online: Classical
Music Reference Library.
#
2
Igor Stravinsky revolutionized 20th-century music with innovative
dissonance, rhythm, and orchestration. This masterpiece challenged
traditional norms. Its avant-garde premiere in 1913 sparked a riot,
leaving a profound impact on both music and dance, transcending
artistic boundaries.
Igor Stravinsky, a revolutionary force in classical music, provides music scholars with an
unparalleled journey into the avant-garde. His groundbreaking compositions, epitomized
by “The Rite of Spring,” defy traditional norms, sparking a riotous premiere and reshaping
the course of 20th-century music. Scholars delve into Stravinsky’s diverse repertoire,
exploring neoclassical gems like “Pulcinella” and serial experiments, gaining insights into
the development of his artistic language. Stravinsky’s impact extends beyond music,
with collaborations in ballet and a keen exploration of contemporary themes, making
his compositions an essential and multifaceted resource for scholars exploring the
intersections of innovation, tradition, and cultural inuence.
Baker’s Student Encyclopedia of Music, vol. 1: Stravinsky, Igor (Feedorovich) edited by Laura Kuhn (New York: Schirmer Reference, 1999),
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cbibliographic_details%7C755315#search/
Baker%27s+Student+Encyclopedia+of+Music%2C+vol.+1
Revolutionizing 20th-Century Music
Stravinsky’s composition played a pivotal role in
revolutionizing 20th-century music. Through innovative
use of dissonance, rhythm, and orchestration, “The Rite of
Spring” departed from conventional tonal structures, paving
the way for the development of modern and experimental
musical styles. Stravinsky’s bold exploration of new sonic
territories had a profound and lasting impact on the
trajectory of classical music during the 20th century.
Challenging Traditional Norms
The composition stood as a radical departure from
traditional musical norms of its time. Stravinsky’s rejection
of established harmonic conventions and rhythmic
patterns challenged the expectations of both audiences
and critics. The deliberate departure from conventional
tonality and meter marked a signicant shift in the
perception of what could be considered acceptable in
classical music, opening the door for a more expansive
and diverse musical landscape.
Listen to Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” performed by the Cleveland Orchestra:
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Crecorded_cd%7C2836648
Album found in Music Online: Listening
Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring”
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cscore%7C356874
Image of Igor Stravinsky from Baker’s
Student Encyclopedia of Music, vol. 1,
part of Music Online: Classical Music
Reference Library.
#
3
“The Rite of Spring” made history with its avant-garde premiere in 1913 at the Théâtre
des Champs-Élysées in Paris. The performance, choreographed by Vaslav Nijinsky, sparked
a riot among the audience due to its unconventional and shocking nature. This event
became a symbol of the avant-garde movement’s ability to challenge societal norms and
expectations. The profound impact extended beyond the realm of music, inuencing the
world of dance and transcending artistic boundaries, marking a transformative moment in
the cultural history of the early 20th century.
The Modern Era, written by Stuart A. Kallen (San Diego, CA: Lucent Books, 2003).
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Creference_article%7C1000183999
Part of Music Online: Classical Music Reference Library.
Listen to Benjamin Britten’s “War Requiem” performed by the London Symphony Orchestra:
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Crecorded_cd%7C2227418
Album found in Music Online: Listening
Reecting the emotional and societal impacts of war, Britten’s work stands as a timeless exploration of the human
experience during times of conict. The composition provides a space for reection on the universal themes of loss,
suffering, and the hope for peace, making it relevant across different periods and conicts.
Benjamin Britten reappears on the top used
titles list with “War Requiem.” Intimately
linked to the socio-political repercussions
of World War II, this title emerges as a
poignant choice for researchers exploring the
intersection of music and contemporary issues. By intertwining
the traditional Latin Requiem Mass with the poetry of Wilfred
Owen, a World War I soldier, Britten creates a work that delves
into the emotional and societal impacts of war.
Socio-Political Relevance
Britten composed this requiem as a response to the
devastating impact of World War II,, creating a work that
speaks to the collective trauma and grief experienced
during this tumultuous period. As a reection of the socio-
political climate of its time, this composition offers a
powerful testimony to the human cost of war and the quest
for peace.
Intersection of Music and Contemporary Issues
The work emerges as a poignant choice for researchers
exploring the intersection of music and contemporary issues.
Britten’s “War Requiem” goes beyond being a mere musical
composition; it serves as a commentary on the societal and
political challenges of its era. Its thematic content makes it a
valuable resource for those interested in studying how music
can be a medium for expressing, questioning, and engaging
with the pressing issues of the time.
Benjamin Britten’s “War Requiem”
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cscore%7C356764
#
4
Educational Signicance
Crafted with a specic focus on introducing young audiences
to the orchestra, Britten’s work is a valuable resource for
music education. It serves as a bridge for young learners
to explore the various instruments, sections, and dynamics
of an orchestra in an engaging and accessible manner.
The educational emphasis of the composition enhances
its relevance in fostering musical appreciation and
understanding among audiences of all ages.
Pedagogical Value for Educators
The composition provides a structured and engaging
platform for teachers to introduce fundamental concepts of
music, orchestration, and instrumentation. Through Britten’s
inventive approach, educators can use the piece as a tool
to enhance students’ comprehension of musical elements,
fostering a deeper appreciation for orchestral music.
Covers from Billboard, Variety, and
Pictures and Picturegoer magazines
Benjamin Britten secures another spot on the top titles list with “The Young Person’s Guide to
the Orchestra,” a title that holds immense educational signicance. Crafted with a specic focus on
introducing young audiences to the orchestra, this composition takes on added value for educators and
learners interested in pedagogical approaches.
Listen to Benjamin Britten’s “The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra” performed by the City of
Birmingham Symphony:
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Crecorded_cd%7C937336
Album found in Music Online: Listening
Benjamin Britten’s “The Young Person’s Guide
to the Orchestra”
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cscore%7C378059
#
5
By specically targeting young audiences, Britten’s composition becomes an
accessible introduction to classical music. It breaks down potential barriers to
entry for those unfamiliar with orchestral works, offering a friendly and enjoyable
experience. The composition’s capacity to captivate young listeners serves
as a gateway for future engagement with classical music, contributing to the
perpetuation of musical appreciation across generations.
Britten had a long-standing relationship with the music publishing company
Boosey & Hawkes and his reoccurrence on this list underscores his close personal
connection with Boosey & Hawkes company.
Britten began his association with Boosey & Hawkes in the 1930s, and they became
his primary publisher. Britten worked closely with the company throughout his
career, and many of his notable compositions were published by them.
Find out more: Liner notes for Britten: Sacred and Profane, composed by Benjamin
Britten, 1913-1976; conducted by Stephen Layton; performed by Polyphony, Britten:
Sacred and Profane (Hyperion, 2001)
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cliner_
notes%7C918719. Part of Music Online: Classical Music Reference Library.
Liner notes for Benjamin Britten: Death in Venice, composed by Benjamin Britten, 1913-1976; BBC Singers and City of
London Sinfonia (Chandos, 2005)
https://search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Crecorded_cd%7C2189634. Part of Music Online:
Classical Music Reference Library.
LTR/JJ-KS/06-24
To talk to the sales department, contact us at
about.proquest.com
Learn more about the latest collaboration of
Music Online: Classical Scores Library, Volume VI - The Boosey & Hawkes Collection
https://alexanderstreet.com/products/music-online-classical-scores-library
What comes next?
Music Online: Classical Scores Library, Volume VI - The
Boosey & Hawkes Collection offers an extensive repository of
400,000 pages, with compositions spanning the Baroque to the
Contemporary Period.
Noteworthy among these are works by women composers including:
• Marjory Kennedy-Fraser’s “Songs of the Hebrides” beautifully
captures the essence of the Hebridean musical tradition,
showcasing her skillful arrangements of folk songs from this rich
cultural heritage.
• Elizabeth Poston’s “The Water of Tyne MFS No. 764” reects the
sentiments and experiences of the people of the Tyne River region
in England through its traditional melody and heartfelt lyrics.
• Unsuk Chin’s “12 Piano Etudes” boldly showcases an innovative
approach to composition, presenting pianists with a diverse
range of technical and expressive challenges. These etudes serve
as valuable tools for both performers and educators.
• Elena Kats-Chernin’s “Dark Wind Blowing” is characterized by its
evocative melodies and rich harmonies. “Dark Wind Blowing” is
emblematic of her distinctive compositional style, which often
blends elements of classical, jazz, and contemporary music.
These compositions, along with others in the collection, provide
a valuable resource for the exploration of classical music, and
celebrate the remarkable contributions of women composers.
Conclusion
Boosey & Hawkes’ consistent presence among the top musical
scores publishers over the past ve years underscores the value
of the scores they provide. The much-anticipated collaboration
with ProQuest for Music Online: Classical Scores Library, Volume
VI - The Boosey & Hawkes Collection presents a signicant
expansion in the realm of digitized musical scores, offering broad
and inclusive titles spanning centuries to enhance musical studies
and appreciation.
This resource guide compiles:
Musical Scores from Music Online: Classical Scores Library,
Volume I: https://alexanderstreet.com/products/music-online-
classical-scores-library
Reference materials from Music Online: Classical Music Reference
Library: https://alexanderstreet.com/products/music-reference-
collection
and Audio albums from Music Online: Listening: https://
alexanderstreet.com/products/music-online-listening
Dive deeper into these composers and explore
their additional top used titles:
Aaron Copland:
• Concerto for Clarinet
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/374278
• Fanfare For The Common Man
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/374094
• Appalachian Spring - Ballet Suite
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/347807
• Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/347806
• El Salón México
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/374089
Benjamin Britten:
• Peter Grimes
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/309279
• The Turn of the Screw
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/309105
• Billy Budd
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/309083
• The Rape of Lucretia
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/376160
• Serenade
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/381002
Igor Stravinsky:
• The Rake’s Progress
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/309266
• Octet for Wind Instruments
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/371352
• Symphony of Psalms
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/386734
• Agon: Ballet for Twelve Dancers
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/374422
• Pétrouchka
search.alexanderstreet.com/view/work/554594
