Benjamin Britten: Canticle V 'The Death of Saint Narcissus', op. 89

An autograph score, in pencil, for tenor and harp, dated 'Horham July 1974' (f. 9).

The text is taken from the poem 'The Death of Saint Narcissus' by T. S. Eliot, and the work is dedicated to William Plomer.

The volume comprises:

• the text (typescript) of 'The Death of Saint Narcissus' [by T. S. Eliot] (ff. 1-2, with annotations in pencil);
• title page, with Britten's initials, and his dedication: 'In loving memory of William Plomer' (f. 3);
• brief notation, struck-through (f. 3v);
• the music, in score (ff. 4-9).

First performance: 15 January 1975, Schloss Elmau, Upper Bavaria (Peter Pears and Osian Ellis).

Restrictions to access apply please consult British Library staff

Digitised copy available on British Library Digitised Manuscripts: http://www.bl.uk/manuscripts/FullDisplay.aspx?ref=Add_MS_60618

Folio dimensions: 380 x 280 mm, except f. 1 and f. 2 (290 x 205 mm).