This collection investigates the liturgical and musical evolution of the Tudor-era anthem through a curated selection of 34 representative compositions. Christopher Morris, an established editor and scholar of choral music, compiles these works to provide a comprehensive overview of the genre's development across the church calendar. The book serves as both a practical resource for performers and a historical record of the stylistic shifts occurring within the English Reformation and its immediate aftermath.

Experts and choral directors frequently cite this volume as a standard reference for early English church music. The collection is recognized for its balance of accessibility and historical accuracy, making it a staple in academic and performance libraries.