Imogen Holst (1907-1984), the daughter of the composer Gustav Holst, was a much-loved source of inspiration for the many musicians and students who encountered her over the years at the Dartington Summer School of Music and the Aldeburgh Festival. In this book, originally published in 1973, she sets out clearly and concisely--and often amusingly--a wealth of practical information that will be of particular interest to the amateur conductor. She gives precise and detailed advice on the technique of conducting, how to form and train a choir, the presentation and rehearsal of music, and how to approach public performances and competitions. Her final chapter offers suggestions for the actual rehearsal of choruses from Purcell's Dido & Aeneas, Handel's l'Allegro, and Britten's Rejoice in the Lamb.

These short simple settings are intended for beginning choirs where the singers may still be in the early stages of trying to read their notes. Each part is easy enough to be learnt by rote if necessary and each setting is short enough for choirs to learn by heart.

Arresting harmonies and unpredictable dynamic contrasts make for some most rewarding arrangements by the legendary choral composer, conductor and arranger. Each part is easy enough to be learnt by rote if necessary and each setting is short enough for to learn by heart for caroling after dark.