A much anticipated biography of composer Arthur Butterworth is to be released on 1st July.

Entitled 'Moorland Symphonies: An Introduction to the Music of Arthur Butterworth', and published by Lyrita, it has been written by Paul Conway, a freelance writer and an acknowledged specialist in 20th century and contemporary British music.

Unique style

He states: "Butterworth has a unique style and voice that was influenced by Sibelius, and Northern music.

He was 33 when he wrote his first symphony and that is when he would say he found his voice, but once it was found he created strong and flexible music that could lend itself to chamber music, orchestral pieces and many other types."

Several interviews

He added: "Arthur Butterworth was unstinting with his help in terms of scores, recordings, notes and personal reminiscences. He granted me several illuminating interviews over a number of years.

I am deeply indebted to him for all this assistance, rendered with unfailing good humour and great enthusiasm."

Recording

Butterworth was born in 1923 and wrote over 150 compositions for different genres, including several important works for the brass band medium with a confidence that was described as "idiomatic and challenging".

A recording of his First, Second and Fourth Symphonies will also be released.

'Moorland Symphonies: An Introduction to the Music of Arthur Butterworth', by Paul Conway will be released on 1st July.