Vaughan Williams, Modernism, and Neo-Romanticism: Sancta Civitas as a Vision "Among the Ruins".

This article explores the impact of the Great War on composer Vaughan Williams and focuses on two of his works, the Pastoral Symphony and Sancta Civitas. It discusses the influence of modernism on his music and the presence of romantic elements in his compositions. The article also provides insight into the composer's personal experiences during the war and his efforts to revive his career afterwards. Additionally, it discusses the musical relationship between composers Holst and Vaughan Williams in the early 1920s, highlighting their exploration of Christian themes in their choral works. The article explores the concept of modernism and Neo-Romanticism in music, emphasizing the diverse range of musical expressions in Vaughan Williams's work. It specifically examines the structure and themes present in the oratorio Sancta Civitas, highlighting the use of tonal stability and instability, as well as the representation of grief and mourning in the music. The article concludes by discussing the reception of Sancta Civitas in the early 20th century and its reflection of Vaughan Williams's belief in a better world. [Extracted from the article]