'Mrs. Vaughan Williams presents a crowded picture of the composer's ceaseless activity right into extreme old age, his persistent concern with new music and young musicians, his unabated instinct to compose, and, at the end of his life, the new-found pleasure in travel and relaxation that was reflected in the last two symphonies.' In addition to his great prowess as a composer, Vaughan Williams was a man of strong character and unflagging energy, who lived a long, full life. He was at the centre of musical events in England for sixty years, a period which for sustained musical achievements is probably unequalled in the history of this country.