A composer of vocal, choral, chamber and instrumental works, Philip Lancaster is emerging as a unique voice in serious contemporary composition, his musical voice a rewilded tonality in which the interplay of musical line brings warmth and profundity. Philip's music is often informed by his wider work, particularly in poetry — a relationship that works the other way, with music informing his recently published poem, Sonata. He has collaborated with poets John Greening and Euan Tait, whom he commissioned to provide texts for new works. Recent commissions include a choral work, Refugee Carol, while current works in progress include a major Ted Hughes song cycle for ’cello and baritone, and four songs for mezzo and string quartet.
Philip’s music has been performed throughout the country, including major premieres at the Three Choirs Festival (the chamber oratorio, War Passion, 2016) and Ludlow English Song Weekend (Fallen, 2021). His work has been published by Stainer & Bell and The Maker’s Press. The debut recording of his music is being released by Resonus Classics in November 2026.
As an arranger and orchestrator, Philip’s work has been performed widely, broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and released on CD.
Examples of my work can be found below.
Detail from Francis Derwent Wood's sculpture of the crucified soldier, 'Canada's Golgotha'