Author Description

New Music 89 both reviews and responds to the British new music scene of 1987-1988. Continuing in the general format of the previous two volumes, it reflects the wealth of activity in British contemporary music-making. Unlike the previous volumes, emphasis is placed on no specific performers or composers, though the latter certainly come to the fore in a much enlarged portfolio comprising both complete scores and substantial extracts from previously unpublished works performed at the 1988 Darmstadt summer course. Essays are devoted to the work of composers Harrison Birtwistle and John Tavener. A selective review of the year by Lynne Williams raises both the fundamental issue of spirituality in today's music and the more topical one of the British response to Australia's bicentennial celebrations. The volume is completed by extensive listings of major broadcasts and performances.