Moeran, E(rnest) J(ohn) (1894-1950)

English composer. His music belongs to the English pastoral tradition, Delius being among his major influences. His works include two sets of choral songs with Old English words, two rhapsodies, a symphony and other orchestral works, a violin concerto, a cello concerto for his wife, Peers Coetmore (whom he married in 1945), chamber and piano music, many songs, and arrangements of folk songs.

He was born in Heston, Middlesex, and lived in Norfolk in his childhood, where his father was a clergyman. He was educated at Uppingham School and later studied music at the Royal College of Music in London. After serving in World War I he continued his studies with John Ireland. In 1923 he came to public notice with a concert of his works given in London, but after some years spent there he retired to Herefordshire.

Works Vocal Nocturne for baritone, chorus, and orchestra (1934), Songs of Springtime and suite Phyllida and Corydon for unaccompanied chorus (both 1934), Blue-eyed Spring for baritone and chorus; song cycle Ludlow Town (texts by Housman) for baritone and piano (1920); seven Poems of James Joyce for baritone and piano (1929), and other pieces; madrigals, part songs, and folk-song arrangements.

Orchestral Sinfonietta, two rhapsodies, symphonic impression In the Mountain Country for orchestra (1921), two pieces for small orchestra Whythorne's Shadow (1931) and Lonely Waters (1932), symphony in G minor (1934-37); concertos for piano, violin, and cello (1942-45).

Chamber string quartet in A minor, string trio in G major, piano trio in D major, sonata for two violins, violin and piano sonata in E minor;

Other Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, Te Deum and Jubilate, two anthems.