Arthur Sullivan: A Life of Divine Emollient

This book explores the life of Arthur Sullivan, the best-loved and most widely performed British composer in history, focusing on his significant corpus of sacred music and his spiritual influences. It reveals his upbringing and training in church music, his own religious beliefs, and his ability to uplift through his character and music.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 08 April 2021
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
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This book delves into the remarkable life of Arthur Sullivan, the esteemed British composer who holds the distinction of being the most beloved and extensively performed artist in the history of British music. While his fame is largely attributed to his comedic opera collaborations with W.S. Gilbert, it is his substantial body of sacred music that holds a special place in his heart and for which he yearned to be remembered. Sullivan's upbringing and training in church music, coupled with his deeply held religious beliefs, had a profound impact on both his theatrical compositions and his more serious works, encompassing oratorios, cantatas, sacred ballads, liturgical pieces, and hymns.

In his pursuit to uncover the spiritual dimensions of Sullivan's life, Ian Bradley has unearthed previously unpublished letters, diary entries, and other sources, shedding light on the significant influences that shaped his faith and work. While he may not have been a saint, nor an ascetic, Sullivan was a true lover of life, embracing its pleasures with zest. At the same time, he possessed a rare spiritual sensitivity, a sincere Christian faith, and a unique ability to uplift through both his character and his music, which can be aptly described as a quality of divine emollient.

Sullivan's journey began in his hometown of London, where he was nurtured in a musical family. His father, John Sullivan, was a violinist and teacher, while his mother, Mary Anne, was a pianist. From an early age, Sullivan displayed a remarkable talent for music, and he was soon enrolled at the Royal Academy of Music, where he studied under renowned composers such as John Thomas and Henry Purcell.

However, it was his exposure to church music that truly shaped Sullivan's artistic direction. He served as a church organist for several parishes, which provided him with a deep understanding of the spiritual and emotional power of music. His involvement in Freemasonry further enriched his spiritual outlook, as he embraced the principles of brotherhood and self-improvement.

Sullivan's religious beliefs were deeply rooted in his Anglican faith, and he was a staunch supporter of the Church of England. He composed numerous liturgical pieces, including the famous "Te Deum" and "Requiem," which were performed in churches across the country. His hymns, such as "O Divine Redeemer," "All Things Bright and Beautiful," and "The Lord is My Shepherd," continue to be cherished by Christians worldwide.

Despite his success as a composer, Sullivan remained humble and down-to-earth. He was known for his warm personality and his ability to connect with people on a personal level. He was a devoted family man, and his wife, Fanny, was a constant source of support and encouragement.

In conclusion, Arthur Sullivan's life was a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift. His unwavering commitment to sacred music, coupled with his deep religious beliefs and spiritual sensitivity, left an indelible mark on the world of music. Through his compositions, Sullivan touched the hearts of countless individuals and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest composers of all time.

\n Weight: 366g\n
Dimension: 139 x 202 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780198863267\n \n