Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) – The 10th movement of Cantata No.147, best known by its title Jesu Jpy of Man’s Desiring was first arranged for piano solo by Dame Myra Hess and eventually became an audience favorite through many versions ranging from guitar to string orchestra – as presented on this program.

William Boyce (1711-1779) is widely regarded as one of the most important English-born composers of the 18th century. Born in London, Boyce was a choirboy at St Paul's Cathedral before studying music. His first professional appointment came in 1734 when he was employed as organist at Oxford Chapel. Followed by a number of similar posts before being appointed Master of the King's Musick and organist at the Chapel Royal. He is best known for his set of eight symphonies, his anthems and his odes. Boyce was largely forgotten after his death and he remained a little-performed composer until the skillfully crafted symphonies were rediscovered and promoted by conductor Constant Lambert.

Paul Hindemith (1895-1963) was one of the most prolific and versatile composers of his day. The 'Five Pieces' date from 1927 and form part of a set of works originally listed as a 'School Exercise for Advanced Students'. Writing a few years earlier, Hindemith made the following interesting comment on his music in general: "I cannot give analyses of my works because I dont know how to explain a piece of music in a few words; I would rather write a new one in the time." He added a laconic comment that he would in future only be able to write short pieces because of the rising price of music paper!

Gustav Holst (1874-1934) composed almost 200 works, including operas, ballet music and songs. An enthusiastic educator, Holst became music master at St Paul's Girls' School and director of music at Morley College, continuing in both posts until retirement. The Brook Green Suite for strings was written in 1933 during Holst's stay in the hospital, where he eventually died. It was written for his pupils, the junior orchestra at St Paul's Girls School: He wanted to write a piece in a contemporary mature style that was easy enough for his pupils to perform. He felt they deserved better than simple orchestrations. It was probably named after Brook Green because that was the location of his wedding to his wife, Isobel, in 1901. It could have also been named after the Brook because of its' proximity to the school.