September 30, 1852:
Charles Villiers Stanford is born at 2 Herbert Street in Dublin, United Kingdom, the only child of John James Stanford, a lawyer, and Mary Henn, daughter of a lawyer.
November 3, 1852:
Charles Villiers Stanford (0) is christened in St. Stephen’s parish church, Dublin.
May 13, 1862:
Charles Villiers Stanford (9) gives a solo piano and violin recital at Herbert Street, Dublin.
November 16, 1863:
Once More My Love, a song for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (11) is performed for the first time, in Dublin. This is the earliest reference to a performance of music composed by Stanford.
June 6, 1864:
A Venetian Dirge for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (11) is performed for the first time, privately in Dublin.
October 1, 1870:
Charles Villiers Stanford (18) enters Queen’s College, Cambridge.
October 25, 1870:
Charles Villiers Stanford (18) is elected a member of the Cambridge University Musical Society. He is matriculating at Queen’s College.
November 30, 1870:
Charles Villiers Stanford (18) gives his debut piano performance at Cambridge University. It is well received.
December 19, 1870:
A Pater noster for chorus by Charles Villiers Stanford (18) is performed for the first time, by the Dublin University Choral Society.
June 5, 1871:
Charles Villiers Stanford (18) is elected to the post of assistant conductor of the Cambridge University Musical Society.
May 15, 1872:
Charles Villiers Stanford (19) gives his first organ recital, on the newly rebuilt organ of Trinity College, Cambridge.
May 22, 1872:
Spring Comes Hither op.1/4 for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (19) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
November 27, 1872:
At the request of Charles Villiers Stanford (20), the Cambridge University Music Society admits women to its choir.
March 21, 1873:
The Seniority (governing body) of Cambridge University votes to offer Charles Villiers Stanford (20) the post of assistant organist at Trinity College. He will accept.
May 27, 1873:
Incidental music to Longfellow’s play The Spanish Student by Charles Villiers Stanford (20) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University directed by the composer.
February 21, 1874:
Months before his graduation, Charles Villiers Stanford (21) is appointed organist at Trinity College, Cambridge for two years, with the proviso that he be allowed some part of that term to study in Leipzig.
June 3, 1874:
A Piano Concerto in B flat by Charles Villiers Stanford (21) is performed for the first time, in Cambridge.
March 4, 1875:
A Piano Trio in G by Charles Villiers Stanford (22) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
April 29, 1875:
Prelude and fugue in e minor by Charles Villiers Stanford (22) is performed for the first time, in Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge.
May 18, 1875:
The Radiant Dark op.1/8 for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (22) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
May 21, 1875:
The Resurrection op.5, for tenor, chorus, orchestra, and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (22) to words of Klopstock, is performed for the first time, in Cambridge. At this concert, Stanford also gives the British premiere of Part III of Faust by Robert Schumann (†19). This brings him to the attention of the musical world outside of Cambridge.
September 12, 1875:
A private concert in honor of Franz Liszt (63) is given in Leipzig. Among those in attendance is Charles Villiers Stanford (22). “The moment his fingers touched the keys, I realized the immense gap between him and all other pianists.” (Williams, 521)
April 18, 1876:
Incidental music to Tennyson’s play Queen Mary op.6 by Charles Villiers Stanford (23) is performed for the first time, in the Lyceum Theatre, London. This performance includes only the songs. See 29 March 1880.
May 19, 1876:
Blue Wings op.1/1 for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (23) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
March 7, 1877:
Serenade for piano duet by Charles Villiers Stanford (24) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
March 25, 1877:
Charles Villiers Stanford (24) is officially appointed organist at Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge.
May 1, 1877:
Cello Sonata no.1 op.9 by Charles Villiers Stanford (24) is performed for the first time, at the Royal Academy of Music, London, the composer at the keyboard.
May 18, 1877:
Violin Sonata no.1 op.11 by Charles Villiers Stanford (24) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge.
May 22, 1877:
God is Our Hope: Psalm 46 op.8 for vocal soloists, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (24) is performed for the first time, in Cambridge.
September 6, 1877:
Festival Overture by Charles Villiers Stanford (24) is performed for the first time, in Gloucester.
October 30, 1877:
La belle dame sans merci, a song for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (25) to words of Keats, is performed for the first time, at Cambridge.
April 8, 1878:
Much to the dismay of his parents, Charles Villiers Stanford (25) marries a singer, Jennie Anna Maria Wetton, daughter of an adventurer and land speculator, at St. Margaret's Church, Ockley, Surrey.
February 21, 1879:
Fantasia Waltzes for piano duet by Charles Villiers Stanford (26) are performed for the first time, at Cambridge University. The composer takes one part.
March 8, 1879:
Symphony no.1 by Charles Villiers Stanford (26) is performed for the first time, in Crystal Palace, London.
May 25, 1879:
The Te Deum and Jubilate from the Morning, Communion, and Evening Services op.10 for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (26) are performed for the first time, at matins in Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge.
August 10, 1879:
The Kyrie, Gloria, and Credo of the Morning, Communion and Evening Services op.10 for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (26) are performed for the first time, at Communion in Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge.
August 24, 1879:
The Benedictus, Magnificat, and Nunc Dimittis from the Morning, Communion and Evening Services op.10 for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (26) are performed for the first time, in Trinity College Chapel.
February 18, 1880:
Three Intermezzi op.13 for clarinet and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (27) are performed for the first time, in Cambridge, the composer at the piano.
March 29, 1880:
The complete score of the incidental music to Tennyson’s play Queen Mary op.6 by Charles Villiers Stanford (27) is performed for the first time, in Manchester.
May 8, 1880:
Piano Quartet op.15 by Charles Villiers Stanford (27) is performed for the first time, in London.
May 12, 1880:
Evening Service for four voices and orchestra op.12 by Charles Villiers Stanford (27) is performed for the first time, for the Festival of the Sons of the Clergy at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
February 6, 1881:
The Veiled Prophet of Khorassan, an opera by Charles Villiers Stanford (28) to words of Squire after Moore, is performed for the first time, in the Hannover Hoftheater.
November 3, 1881:
Awake, my heart, an anthem for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (29) to words of Klopstock (tr.Wilson), is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
February 16, 1882:
Charles Villiers Stanford (29) receives a letter from the Prince of Wales asking him to attend a meeting to discuss a new Royal College of Music.
February 28, 1882:
A meeting takes place in St. James’ Palace with the Prince of Wales, prominent aristocratic and political leaders, and leaders in the field of music, including Charles Villiers Stanford (29), to discuss a Royal College of Music to replace the National Training School of Music.
March 7, 1882:
Symphony no.2 “Elegiac” by Charles Villiers Stanford (29) is performed for the first time, in Cambridge, conducted by the composer.
March 22, 1882:
Three Cavalier Songs op.17 for baritone, male chorus, and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (29) to words of Browning is performed completely for the first time, in Cambridge. See 8 May 1894.
August 30, 1882:
Serenade for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (29) is performed for the first time, in Birmingham.
October 25, 1882:
Lullaby op.19/2 by Charles Villiers Stanford (30) to words of Dekker is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
November 15, 1882:
Requiescat op.14/1 for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (30) to words of Arnold is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
April 29, 1883:
If ye then be risen with Christ, an anthem for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (30) to words from the Bible, is performed for the first time, in Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge.
June 14, 1883:
Oxford University confers an honorary doctorate on Charles Villiers Stanford (30).
February 4, 1884:
Piano Sonata in D flat op.20 by Charles Villiers Stanford (31) is performed for the first time, in Cambridge.
March 13, 1884:
The slow movement from Charles Villiers Stanford’s (31) Cello Concerto is performed for the first time, in Cambridge with the composer playing a piano reduction.
April 18, 1884:
Savonarola, a grand opera by Charles Villiers Stanford (31) to words of Gilbert A Beckett, is performed for the first time, in the Hamburg Stadttheater. The public is ecstatic, the press generally positive.
April 28, 1884:
The Canterbury Pilgrims, an opera by Charles Villiers Stanford (31) to words of Gilbert A Beckett, is performed for the first time, in the Drury Lane Theatre, London.
October 15, 1884:
Elegiac Ode op.21 for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (32) to words of Whitman is performed for the first time, in Norwich conducted by the composer.
November 28, 1884:
Prospice, a song for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (32) to words of Browning, is performed for the first time.
May 17, 1885:
Charles Villiers Stanford (32) writes to the Bach Choir Committee accepting their appointment as conductor.
August 28, 1885:
The Three Holy Children op.22, an oratorio for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (32) to words of the Bible, is performed for the first time, in Birmingham.
December 1, 1885:
Incidental music to Aeschylus’ play The Eumenides by Charles Villiers Stanford (33) is performed for the first time, at Theatre Royal, Cambridge, conducted by the composer.
February 15, 1886:
Blessed are the dead, a motet for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (33) to words of the Bible, is performed for the first time, at a memorial service for Henry Bradshaw in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge.
March 25, 1886:
Charles Villiers Stanford (33) gives his first concert as conductor of the Bach Choir.
June 10, 1886:
Piano Quintet op.25 by Charles Villiers Stanford (33) is performed for the first time, at the Cambridge Guildhall, the composer at the keyboard.
October 14, 1886:
The Revenge: a Ballad of the Fleet op.24 for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (34) to words of Tennyson is performed for the first time, in Leeds. It is his greatest success so far.
May 3, 1887:
O Praise the Lord of Heaven op.27, for soprano, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (34) to words of the Psalms, is performed for the first time, in Manchester.
May 11, 1887:
Carmen saeculare, an ode for soprano, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (34) to words of Tennyson, is performed for the first time, at Buckingham Palace.
June 27, 1887:
Symphony no.3 “Irish” by Charles Villiers Stanford (34) is performed for the first time, in London.
November 22, 1887:
Incidental music to Sophocles’ play Oedipus tyrannus by Charles Villiers Stanford (35) is performed for the first time, in Theatre Royal, Cambridge.
December 7, 1887:
Charles Villiers Stanford (36) is elected Professor of Music at Cambridge University.
February 24, 1888:
Justorum animae op.38/1 for chorus and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (36) to words of the Bible is performed for the first time, in Trinity Chapel, Cambridge.
June 7, 1888:
Carmen familiare for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (35) to words of Verrall is performed for the first time, at Trinity College, Cambridge.
November 8, 1888:
Charles Villiers Stanford (36) is awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Cambridge University.
December 12, 1888:
Festival Overture “Queen of the Seas”, for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (36), is performed for the first time.
January 14, 1889:
Two works by Charles Villiers Stanford (36) are performed for the first time, in Berlin: Suite op.32 for violin and orchestra, and the Symphony no.4, both conducted by the composer. The violin solo in the Suite is played by the dedicatee, Joseph Joachim.
October 11, 1889:
Ode on St. Cecilia's Day for soprano, bass, chorus, and orchestra by Hubert Parry (41) to words of Pope is performed for the first time, in Leeds. It is a resounding success. Also premiered is The Voyage of Maeldune op.34, a ballad for solo voices, chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (37) to words of Tennyson.
November 18, 1889:
Cello Sonata no.2 op.39 by Charles Villiers Stanford (37) is performed for the first time, in St. James’ Hall, London, the composer at the piano.
November 25, 1889:
Piano Trio no.1 op.35 by Charles Villiers Stanford (37) is performed for the first time, at the University Musical Union, Oxford.
July 20, 1891:
The Battle of the Baltic op.41, a ballad for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (38) to words of Campbell, is performed for the first time, in St. James’ Hall, London.
October 7, 1891:
Eden op.40, an oratorio for six solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (39) to words of Bridges, is performed for the first time, in Birmingham. Press reaction is mixed.
January 22, 1892:
String Quartet no.1 op.44 by Charles Villiers Stanford (39) is performed for the first time, in Newcastle upon Tyne.
February 23, 1892:
Responding to a request from Charles Villiers Stanford (39) that Johannes Brahms (58) allow Cambridge University to confer an honorary doctorate on him in June 1893, Brahms sends his “thanks but no thanks.” At that season, he would rather be “walking beside some lovely Italian lake.” He suggests that Stanford should do the same.
June 11, 1892:
Installation Ode for chorus by Charles Villiers Stanford (39) to words of Verrall is performed for the first time, at the installation of the Vice-Chancellor, Cambridge.
December 25, 1892:
Charles Villiers Stanford (40) concludes his tenure as organist at Trinity Chapel, Cambridge.
February 6, 1893:
Incidental music to Tennyson’s play Becket by Charles Villiers Stanford (40) is performed for the first time, in the Lyceum, London. The composer is not in attendance as he must travel to Milan to review the premiere of Falstaff for the Daily Graphic and the Fortnightly Review.
March 2, 1893:
A Corsican Dirge for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (40) to traditional Corsican words translated by Strettell, is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University, the composer at the keyboard.
May 10, 1893:
East to West op.52, an ode for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (40) to words of Swinburne, is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London. It is dedicated to “The President and People of the United States.”
May 26, 1893:
Mass in G op.46 for solo voices, chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (40) is performed for the first time, in Brompton Oratory, London. See 23 January 1894.
June 12, 1893:
A concert celebrating tomorrow’s degree recipients takes place in Cambridge. Max Bruch conducts a scene from his choral work Odysseus, Camille Saint-Saëns (57) conducts his Fantasy L’afrique, Arrigo Boito (51) conducts the prologue from his Mefistofele, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (53) conducts his Francesca da Rimini, and Charles Villiers Stanford (40), the musical organizer of the festivities, conducts Edvard Grieg’s (49) Peer Gynt Suite no.1. Stanford finishes the concert by conducting his own East to West.
January 23, 1894:
Mass in G op.46 for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (41) is performed publicly for the first time, in London. See 26 May 1893.
February 3, 1894:
Six Irish Fantasies op.54 for violin and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (41) are performed for the first time, in St. James’ Hall, London.
February 13, 1894:
String Quartet no.2 op.45 by Charles Villiers Stanford (41) is performed for the first time, in Prince’s Hall, London.
May 8, 1894:
Three Cavalier Songs op.17 for baritone, male chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (41) to words of Browning is performed for the first time. See 22 March 1882.
March 20, 1895:
Symphony no.5 “L’Allegro ed il Pensieroso” by Charles Villiers Stanford (42) is performed for the first time, in London.
May 27, 1895:
Piano Concerto no.1 by Charles Villiers Stanford (42) is performed for the first time, in London.
August 28, 1895:
Suite of Ancient Dances op.58 for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (42) is performed for the first time, in London.
September 19, 1895:
The Bard op.50, an ode for bass, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (42) to words of Gray, is performed for the first time, in Cardiff, conducted by the composer.
November 20, 1895:
As part of the bicentennial of the death of Henry Purcell, the Royal College of Music presents, at the Lyceum Theatre, the first performance of Dido and Aeneas since the composer’s life. The work is directed by Charles Villiers Stanford (43) and the student participants include Ralph Vaughan Williams (23) and Gustav Holst (21).
November 21, 1895:
A grand service of commemoration is held in Westminster Cathedral to mark 200 years since the death of Henry Purcell. Wreaths are laid at his grave by some of the most notable figures in British music, including Hubert Parry (47) and Charles Villiers Stanford (43).
March 2, 1896:
Shamus O’Brien, a romantic comic opera by Charles Villiers Stanford (43) to words of Jessop after Le Fanu, is performed for the first time, in the Opera Comique Theatre, London. It is a smashing success and will enjoy 82 performances.
October 9, 1896:
Phaudrig Crohoore op.62, a ballad for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (44) to words of Le Fanu, is performed for the first time, in Norwich.
December 8, 1896:
The Clown’s Songs op.65, a cycle for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (44) to words of Shakespeare, is performed for the first time, in London.
May 3, 1897:
John Ireland (17) becomes a composition student of Charles Stanford (44) at Cambridge University.
October 6, 1897:
Requiem Mass op.63 for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (45) is performed for the first time, in Birmingham, conducted by the composer.
October 27, 1897:
Charles Villiers Stanford (45) gives his first performance as conductor of the Leeds Philharmonic Society, in the Town Hall.
February 12, 1898:
The Princess op.68, a cycle for vocal quartet and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (45) to words of Tennyson, is performed for the first time, at the Northern Polytechnic Institute in London.
October 5, 1898:
Caractacus, a cantata by Edward Elgar (41) to words of Acworth, is performed for the first time, in Leeds, conducted by the composer. The audience gives overwhelming support, the press is “polite” but mixed. Afterwards, Elgar first makes the acquaintance of Hubert Parry (50). Gabriel Fauré (53) and Charles Villiers Stanford (46) are also in the audience.
October 6, 1898:
Te Deum op.66 for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (46) is performed for the first time, in Leeds.
May 4, 1899:
Concert Variations upon an English Theme “Down among the dead men” op.71 for piano and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (46) is performed for the first time, in Queen’s Hall, London conducted by the composer.
June 30, 1899:
Our Enemies Have Fallen op.68 for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (46) to words of Tennyson is performed for the first time, in Buckingham Palace.
July 13, 1899:
Piano Trio no.2 op.73 by Charles Villiers Stanford (46) is performed for the first time, in London.
June 25, 1900:
The Last Post op.75 for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (47) to words of Henley is performed for the first time, in Buckingham Palace. See 11 September 1900.
September 11, 1900:
Thanksgiving Te Deum for soprano, bass, chorus, and orchestra by Hubert Parry (52) is performed for the first time, in Hereford, “to commemorate the noble achievements of the British forces in South Africa.” Also premiered is The Last Post op.75 for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (47) to words of Henley. See 25 June 1900.
March 7, 1901:
Violin Concerto no.1 by Charles Villiers Stanford (48) is performed for the first time, in Bournemouth conducted by the composer.
March 15, 1901:
An Irish Idyll op.77, a cycle for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (48) to words of O’Neill, is performed for the first time, in St. James’ Hall, London.
March 21, 1901:
Tritons for orchestra by John Ireland (21) is performed for the first time, in Alexandra House, London, conducted by Charles Villiers Stanford (48).
May 30, 1901:
Much Ado About Nothing, an opera with words by Sturgis after Shakespeare, music by Charles Villiers Stanford (48) is performed for the first time, at Covent Garden, London. The public and press give it a generally positive response.
June 20, 1902:
Two works named Berceuse by Frank Bridge (23) are performed for the first time, at the Royal College of Music: one for violin and strings conducted by Charles Villiers Stanford (49) and one for voice and orchestra to words of D. Wordsworth, the composer conducting. This is Bridge’s first public appearance as a conductor.
June 26, 1902:
The Coronation Honors List includes a knighthood for Charles Villiers Stanford (49). The coronation was supposed to take place today but the King was operated on for appendicitis two days ago.
October 23, 1902:
The lyric rhapsody A Star Song op.54 by Horatio Parker (39) to words of Carpenter is performed for the first time, in Norwich, England. On the same program is the premiere of the Irish Rhapsody no.1 for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (50).
January 1, 1903:
King Edward VII of Great Britain is proclaimed Emperor of India in Delhi. A Flourish of Trumpets by Charles Villiers Stanford (50) is performed for the first time, at the occasion.
January 8, 1903:
Five Sonnets from “The Triumph of Love” op.82 for voice and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (50) to words of Holmes is performed for the first time, in St. James’ Hall, London, the composer at the piano.
January 29, 1903:
The Clarinet Concerto by Charles Villiers Stanford (50) is performed for the first time, in Bournemouth. The composer conducts with his injured left arm in a sling.
May 13, 1903:
The Lord of Might op.83 for chorus, orchestra, and organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (50) to words of Heber is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
May 25, 1903:
Irish Rhapsody no.2 “The Lament for the Son of Ossian” for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (50) is performed for the first time, in Amsterdam.
January 11, 1904:
String Quintet no.1 op.85 by Charles Villiers Stanford (51) is performed for the first time, in St. James’ Hall, London.
March 30, 1904:
String Quintet no.2 op.86 by Charles Villiers Stanford (51) is performed for the first time, in Berlin.
April 12, 1904:
Through the efforts of Charles Villiers Stanford (51) and Hubert Parry (56), Edward Elgar (46) is elected to the Athenaeum Club.
April 22, 1904:
Four Irish Dances op.89 for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (51) is performed for the first time, in Buckingham Palace.
October 7, 1904:
Songs of the Sea op.91 for baritone, male chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (52) to words of Newbolt is performed for the first time, in Leeds.
February 13, 1905:
Two of the Three Dante Rhapsodies op.92 for piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (52), Beatrice and Capaneo, are performed for the first time, in Bechstein Hall, London by Percy Grainger (22).
March 16, 1905:
Edward Elgar (47) gives the first of his Birmingham Lectures entitled “A Future for English Music.” He attacks some current English composers such as Charles Villiers Stanford (52) although not by name, and claims that current English music is held in no regard abroad. Formerly friends, Elgar and Stanford cease communication.
March 25, 1905:
Francesca from the Three Dante Rhapsodies op.92 for piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (52) is performed for the first time, in Bechstein Hall, London. See 13 February 1905.
January 18, 1906:
Symphony no.6 “In memoriam GF Watts” by Charles Villiers Stanford (53) is performed for the first time, in Queen’s Hall, London conducted by the composer.
January 25, 1906:
The Serenade for nine winds and strings op.95 by Charles Villiers Stanford (53) is performed for the first time, in Aeolian Hall, London.
February 20, 1907:
String Quartet no.4 by Charles Villiers Stanford (56) is performed for the first time, at Cambridge University.
June 14, 1907:
Ode on the Death of the Duke of Wellington op.100 for soprano, baritone, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (56) to words of Tennyson, is performed for the first time, privately, at the Royal College of Music, London. See 14 October 1908.
September 4, 1907:
Incidental music to Binyon’s play Attila the Hun by Charles Villiers Stanford (54) is performed for the first time, in His Majesty’s Theatre, London.
October 10, 1907:
Two new works are premeiered in Leeds Town Hall: Toward the Unknown Region, for chorus and orchestra by Ralph Vaughan Williams (34) to words of Whitman, directed by the composer, and Stabat mater op.96, a symphonic cantata for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (55).
March 4, 1908:
String Quartet no.5 op.104 by Charles Villiers Stanford (55) is performed for the first time, in Leeds.
May 14, 1908:
A Welcome Song op.107 for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (55) to words of the Duke of Argyll is performed for the first time, at the opening of the Franco-British Exhibition in London. The composer conducts 300 voices.
June 17, 1908:
Installation March op.108 for military band by Charles Villiers Stanford (55) is performed for the first time, for the installation of the new chancellor of Cambridge University.
October 14, 1908:
Ode on the Death of the Duke of Wellington op.100 for soprano, baritone, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (56) to words of Tennyson, is performed publicly for the first time, in Bristol, the composer conducting. See 14 June 1907.
March 2, 1909:
Ave atque vale op.114, a choral overture for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (56) to words of the Bible, is performed for the first time, in Queen’s Hall, London, conducted by the composer. It is intended to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of Franz Joseph Haydn and the birth of Alfred, Lord Tennyson.
June 9, 1909:
Charles Villiers Stanford’s (56) work for chorus and orchestra, Ode to Discord to words of Graves, is performed for the first time, in London.
July 19, 1909:
Choric Ode for chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (56) to words of Skrine is performed for the first time, in Bath.
July 8, 1910:
Edward Elgar (53), Hubert Parry (62), Charles Villiers Stanford (57), Edward German, and Alexander Mackenzie all conduct their works at a concert to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Bournemouth Municipal Orchestra. Elgar and Stanford do not speak to each other.
October 13, 1910:
Songs of the Fleet op.117 for baritone, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (58) to words of Newbolt is performed for the first time, in Leeds.
June 22, 1911:
Several works by British composers are heard for the first time, at the coronation of King George V of Great Britain in Westminster Abbey: the Coronation March op.65 and O Hearken Thou op.64 for chorus and orchestra by Edward Elgar (54), the Gloria from the Festal Communion Service op.128 by Charles Villiers Stanford (58), Te Deum in D for chorus and orchestra by Hubert Parry (63), and a revised version of Parry’s coronation anthem I was glad, first heard at the coronation of Edward VII. See 9 August 1902.
February 22, 1912:
Symphony no.7 by Charles Villiers Stanford (59) is performed for the first time, in Queen’s Hall, London conducted by the composer.
September 3, 1912:
Incidental music to Parker’s play Drake by Charles Villiers Stanford (59) is performed for the first time, in His Majesty’s Theatre, London.
February 8, 1914:
Irish Rhapsody no.4 “The fisherman of Lough Neagh and what he saw” by Charles Villiers Stanford (61) is performed for the first time, in Amsterdam.
March 14, 1914:
Piano Quartet no.2 op.133 by Charles Villiers Stanford (61) is performed for the first time, in Bechstein Hall, London.
March 23, 1914:
The first of six letters written by Charles Villiers Stanford (61) is published in The Times of London. He outlines his opposition to Irish home rule and his support of the Unionist cause.
September 25, 1914:
The King’s Highway for voice, chorus, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (61) to words of Newbolt is performed for the first time, in Queen’s Hall, London. Stanford has donated all proceeds from the song to the Prince of Wales’ National Relief Fund.
May 9, 1915:
Charles Villiers Stanford (62) writes to Horatio Parker (51) telling him he will not be able to travel to Connecticut for the premiere of his Piano Concerto no.2. He booked passage to sail 15 May on the Lusitania.
June 3, 1915:
Two new orchestral works are premiered at the Norfolk Festival in Connecticut: Tam O’Shanter, a symphonic ballad by George Whitefield Chadwick (60) and the Piano Concerto no.2 op.126 of Charles Villiers Stanford (62).
January 14, 1916:
The Critic or An Opera Rehearsed, an opera by Charles Villiers Stanford (63) to words of James after Sheridan, is performed for the first time, in the Shaftesbury Theatre, London. The press is generally positive and it is given eleven performances.
March 14, 1916:
Clarinet Sonata op.129 by Charles Villiers Stanford (63) is performed for the first time, in Steinway Hall, London.
March 18, 1917:
The Irish Rhapsody no.5 op.147 by Charles Villiers Stanford (64) is performed for the first time, in London.
January 20, 1918:
Verdun: Solemn March and Heroic Epilogue for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (65) is performed for the first time, in London.
October 16, 1918:
A funeral in memory of Charles Hubert Hastings Parry takes place in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, presided over by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The building is full, including Edward Elgar (61), Charles Villiers Stanford (66) and representatives of the King, Queen, Prince of Wales, the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, London, Trinity College, Dublin, the Royal Academy of Music, and various musical and academic societies. Lento (in memoriam CHHP) for organ by Frank Bridge (39) is performed for the first time.
November 9, 1918:
Elegy for Brahms (†21) for orchestra by Hubert Parry (†0) is performed for the first time, at the Royal College of Music, London, conducted by Charles Villiers Stanford (66), 21 years after it was composed.
December 4, 1918:
An Irish Concertino for violin, cello, and piano by Charles Villiers Stanford (66) is performed for the first time, in London. See 22 April 1920.
January 10, 1919:
In solidarity with his colleagues in France, Charles Villiers Stanford (66) resigns his membership in the Royal Academy of Arts, Berlin.
February 27, 1919:
String Quartet no.7 by Charles Villiers Stanford (66) is performed for the first time, at a student chamber music concert at the Royal College of Music, London. Also premiered is Isobel for voice and piano by Frank Bridge (40) to words of Goddard-Fenwick.
March 25, 1919:
A Song of Agincourt for orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (66) is performed for the first time, at the Royal College of Music, London.
May 3, 1919:
Ballata and Ballabile for cello and orchestra op.160 by Charles Villiers Stanford (66) is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London. This is in a piano reduction. See 8 August 1988.
May 7, 1919:
Violin Sonata op.165/2 by Charles Villiers Stanford (66) is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London.
April 4, 1920:
Mass in Eight Voices by Charles Villiers Stanford (67) is performed for the first time, in Westminster Cathedral.
April 22, 1920:
The original version of An Irish Concertino for violin, cello, and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (67) is performed for the first time, in Bournemouth. See 4 December 1918.
November 4, 1920:
The Prelude to Charles Villiers Stanford’s (68) unperformed opera The Travelling Companion is performed for the first time, in Queen’s Hall, London. See 30 April 1925.
March 5, 1921:
At the Abbey Gate op.177 for baritone or male chorus and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (68) to words of Darling is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London conducted by the composer. It is the last time he conducts in public.
June 3, 1921:
Charles Villiers Stanford (68) conducts at the Royal College of Music for the last time.
September 5, 1922:
Fantasia upon the tune ‘Intercessor’ by CHH Parry op.187 for organ by Charles Villiers Stanford (69) is performed for the first time, in Gloucester.
October 30, 1923:
Irish Rhapsody no.6 for violin and orchestra by Charles Villiers Stanford (71) is performed for possibly the first time, in York.
December 31, 1923:
Charles Villiers Stanford (71) resigns as Professor of Music at Cambridge University effective 1 April 1924.
March 17, 1924:
Charles Villiers Stanford (71) suffers a stroke at his London home.
March 29, 1924:
Charles Villiers Stanford dies in his home at 9 Lower Berkeley Street (Fitzhardinge Street), Portman Square, London, United Kingdom, twelve days after suffering a stroke. He is aged 71 years, five months, and 29 days.
April 3, 1924:
A funeral service in memory of Charles Villiers Stanford takes place in Westminster Abbey. His ashes are buried in the north choir aisle of Westminster Abbey, next to the remains of Henry Purcell (†229).
April 30, 1925:
The Travelling Companion, an opera by Charles Villiers Stanford (†1) to words of Newbolt after Andersen, is performed for the first time, at the David Lewis Theatre, Liverpool. See 4 November 1920.
September 19, 1958:
The ashes of the earthly remains of Ralph Vaughan Williams are interred in the north choir aisle of Westminster Abbey near the remains of Henry Purcell (†262) and Charles Villiers Stanford (†32), before a large assembly.
March 20, 1968:
String Quartet no.8 op.167 by Charles Villiers Stanford (†43) is performed for the first time, over the airwaves of BBC Radio Three. See 21 November 1968.
November 21, 1968:
String Quartet no.8 by Charles Villiers Stanford (†44) is performed before a live audience for the first time, at the Savile Club, London, 49 years after it was composed. See 20 March 1968.
July 20, 1980:
String Quartet no.6 by Charles Villiers Stanford (†56) is performed for the first time, in Bracknell, 70 years after it was composed.
October 20, 1987:
Irish Rhapsody no.3 by Charles Villiers Stanford (†63) is performed for the first time, in Belfast, 74 years after it was composed.
August 8, 1988:
The original version of Ballata and Ballabile by Charles Villiers Stanford (†65) is performed for the first time, in Belfast 72 years after it was composed. See 3 May 1919.
June 19, 1990:
Concert Piece for organ, brass, timpani, and strings by Charles Villiers Stanford (†66) is performed for the first time, in Belfast, 69 years after it was composed.