The Stones and Lonely Places Sing

Anthony Payne, born in London in 1936, was a distinguished English composer, music critic, and musicologist whose work spans a wide range of genres and styles. Payne is perhaps best known for his completion of Edward Elgar's Third Symphony, a project that gained significant acclaim and acceptance into Elgar's canon. His own compositions, particularly his chamber music, often reflect a unique blend of modernist techniques and late English romanticism, a style described by colleagues as "modernized nostalgia."

Payne's extensive body of work includes numerous commissions for major ensembles such as the BBC Proms, the BBC Philharmonic, and the London Sinfonietta. His discography features three portrait CDs dedicated to his chamber music, showcasing his versatility and depth as a composer. Initially a proponent of modernist music, Payne's later works often drew inspiration from the rich tradition of English composers from the early 20th century.

In addition to his composing career, Payne was a renowned critic and author, contributing significantly to the field of musicology with books on composers such as Schoenberg, Frank Bridge, and Elgar. His contributions to music were recognized with several awards, including the British Composer Award for his work "Visions and Journeys." Payne passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence the world of classical music.