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The Captain's Apprentice by Caroline Davison (Omnibus)

Caroline Davison’s exploration of Edwardian folk song, The Fens and the music of Ralph Vaughan Williams. Read by Poppy Miller.

Following in the footsteps of Ralph Vaughan Williams, Caroline Davison explores the influence of folk song and The Fens on the composer.

Ralph Vaughan Williams was a keen collector of folk songs and committed to saving these indigenous tunes before they could be forgotten. In 1905 he was in King's Lynn where James 'Duggie' Carter sang 'The Captain's Apprentice'. The beautiful tune, melody, harmony and feeling went on to shape Vaughan Williams' future composition.

Yet, in stark contrast, the lyrics of this song told a tale of brutal torture at sea. Caroline Davison delves into the plight of cabin boys on the high seas who were at the mercy of unscrupulous sea captains. She also describes how the landscape of the Fens inspired Vaughan Williams’ work. There are also glimpses into the composer's personal life and the times in which he lived.

Omnibus of five parts abridged by Katrin Williams.

Read by Poppy Miller.

Producer: Elizabeth Allard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September and October 2022.

1 hour, 15 minutes

On radio

Next Saturday07:30
BBC Radio 4 Extra

Broadcasts

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