The Consort
Penelope Cave
2026
John Reading
Five Anthems for Solo Voice (A Book of New Anthems, c.1715)
ed. MARTIN PERKINS
Edition HH 634, 2025 ISMN 979-0-70821-348-2
www.editionhh.co.uk
Martin Perkins introduces the five anthems by a student of Westminster Abbey’s organist, the composer, John Blow, as found in John Reading’s original publication by subscription; sadly for scholars, there appears to have been no published list of subscribers. It is clearly laid-out, with two staves for keyboard, and the vocal line above in a landscape format. Perkins draws attention to the fact that whilst originally composed for organ and ‘high voice’ (i.e. the vocal line employs a treble clef), and based on Psalms 90, 25, 145, 18, and 56), a harpsichord might also accompany for concert performance; in which case, I would want to add a bass instrument to double the left hand.
The ritornelli within the anthems were originally published on two staves, for both hands, offering the keyboard player some moments to shine, and Perkins has provided an excellent, plain and serviceable right-hand realisation for the continuing accompaniment, with the original figures beneath, and enough space around the cuesized notes for personal additions in the right hand, if required. I am impressed by these anthems; each offers a substantial and diverse showcase for the singer, with which to express the meaning of the chosen psalms, and enjoy the contrast between varied sections. They would also make a good foil to lighter songs by that other student of Blow, Henry Purcell.
Some nicely chosen reproductions from the original publication, including an advertisement, in which Reading “hop’d that all Lovers of Musick will Encourage this undertaking and by their Intrest [sic] promote the Same.” I can only add that I hope this review will also ‘promote the Same’, and that you will buy a copy for yourselves of this excellent publication.
PENELOPE CAVE
We are grateful to theThe Consort for permission to reproduce this review.
