Imogen Holst with James Blades
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Imogen Holst with James Blades
Imogen Holst and James Blades in Orford Church, early July 1961, with the handbells used in Brittens Noyes Fludde Date: 1961
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14147882
© Walter Rawlings/Mary Evans Picture Library
Benjamin Blades Britten Conductor Festival Fludde Handbell Holst Imogen Noyes Orford Percussion Percussionist
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, taken in early July 1961, renowned English composer Imogen Holst (1907-1984) is seen sharing a light-hearted moment with James Blades (1921-2011), a distinguished percussionist, inside the picturesque Orford Church in Suffolk, England. The setting holds historical significance as it was the location for the first performance of Benjamin Britten's (1913-1976) groundbreaking choral work, "Noyes Fludde," on June 16, 1958. Imogen Holst, the elder sister of Benjamin Britten, played a pivotal role in the creation and production of "Noyes Fludde." She conducted the work's first performance and continued to do so in various productions throughout her career. In the image, she is seen wearing a white blouse and a floral print skirt, her expressive face beaming with joy as she engages in conversation with James Blades. James Blades, who was the percussionist for the first performance of "Noyes Fludde," is seen holding a set of handbells. The handbells were an essential part of Britten's innovative composition, which called for a large community chorus, a small orchestra, and a variety of unconventional instruments, including handbells, to create a unique and immersive musical experience. The photograph captures a moment of camaraderie and shared history between two esteemed musicians who were integral to the creation and performance of one of the most influential works in 20th-century classical music. The image transports us back to the 1960s, a time when the arts flourished and collaboration and innovation were at the heart of the creative process.
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