Reading, John: Five Anthems for Solo Voice

(A Book of New Anthems, c.1715)

Readings A Book of New Anthems Containing a Hundred Plated fairly Engraven with a Thorough Bass figured for the Organ or Harpsichord was published by subscription in 1715. In the preface to the collection, Reading gives his reasoning for publishing the music, explaining ‘’Tis a very hard, tho usual Case, that when A Person has with great Labour and Study Completed A Work of this Nature, Others should Pirate upon him and run away with its Profit’. The keyboard part is intended for an organ with a low GG compass in mind (typical of English instruments of the period which had not pedalboard). This range, and the non-chordal left-hand part also makes it suitable for harpsichord. There are no dynamic markings in the music. Indications of ‘Ritornel[lo]’ and ‘Verse’ suggest registration changes, according to the chosen instrument. The only other registration indication – ‘Great Orgain’ – suggests Reading expected a two-manual instrument. Ornament symbols used by Reading are typical of the time and consistent with those appearing in various ‘Rules for Graces’ of the period, such as The Harpsichord Master, London, 1697..