This collection investigates the historical development and stylistic evolution of English choral music from the Renaissance to the modern era. John Rutter, a prominent composer and conductor, curates this anthology to provide a comprehensive overview of the liturgical and secular vocal traditions that define the English choral sound. The work serves as both a historical record and a practical resource for performers seeking to understand the technical requirements of various periods.

Experts frequently cite this collection as a standard reference for choral directors and students of music history. Readers often note the practical utility of the selections for performance and the clarity of the editorial commentary provided by Rutter.