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

This material is held atBritish Library Music Collections

  • Reference
    • GB 2027 Add MS 60618
  • Alternative Id.
      (ark) ark:/81055/vdc_100000000393.0x0000f8
  • Dates of Creation
    • 1974
  • Language of Material
    • English
  • Physical Description
    • 1 volume (9 folios)

Scope and Content

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).

Access Information

Restrictions to access apply please consult British Library staff

Not Public Record(s)

Alternative Form Available

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

Physical Characteristics and/or Technical Requirements

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