Words, Music and Place Study Day

An Enjoyable Event at Bournemouth University

On Friday 26th June, THS members took part in a Study Day on the subject of ‘Words, Music & Place’ organised by Dr Natalie Burton and Ian Davis of Bournemouth University. The day was billed as a collaboration between The THS, BU, Arts University Bournemouth and The Open University.

The day was divided up into three sections. In the morning, we listened to three papers. The first, delivered by Professor Robert Fraser (OU) explored ‘cultural nationalism’; and looked at the role of music and song in creating national identity. The second paper, delivered by Dr Robert Samuels (OU), explored the mythology behind landscape and how music can engender a profound understanding and appreciation of place. And the third paper, delivered by Dr Joanne Reardon (OU), focused on Handel’s deep affinity with 18th century London. In her talk, Dr Reardon drew from her own novel – Mr H’s Angel – which blends keenly-observed historical detail with fiction.

After lunch, we had a panel discussion on ‘Hardy’s Houses’, compered by THS Chair & Academic Director, Mark Chutter. The panel comprised Professor Hywel Dix, Alban O’Brien, Sarah Gregson and Kenneth Young, Harriet Still, and Alastair Braidwood. To accompany the colourful stories of Athelhampton House, Poxwell Manor, Max Gate and Hardy’s Cottage, and the vibrant images on screen, we were regaled with music, poetry and song – with both Alastair and Harriet performing and playing instruments on stage.

The third and final session of the day was a lecture recital, where Dr Natalie Burton examined ‘the wider social, cultural and historical implications of place beyond locality’. Dorset is a county which holds a special place in the affections of many canonical poets and writers. In her lecture, Dr Burton explored how some much-celebrated poems and prose pieces, with their focus on place, have been translated into song by various composers from Gerald Finzi to John Ireland. She was aided in this by singer and musical director Jonathan Prentice, by choral tenor Paul Heaslip, and by pianist Rob Taylor.

The study day was rounded off with a drinks’ reception. The whole event was immensely enjoyable and richly rewarding for all in attendance. Our awareness, understanding and appreciation of the synergies which exist between literature and music were greatly enhanced by the expertise and knowledge of the various speakers, academics and performers who, working together harmoniously, made this symposium so memorable. Thank you.

Byron Silver

THS Council of Management

Scroll down and click on first image to view photographs from the day