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5 Questions for Tim Dowley
We caught up with Tim Dowley about his new book Christian Music.
1. What was the last biography you read and enjoyed?
Ma’am Darling by Craig Brown ’99 views of Princess Margaret’ – a hilarious, shocking and revealing kaleidoscope of mini-stories that build into a complex and memorable portrait.
2. You have written biographies of famous people. How did this influence writing a history of music?
I’ve written previously on J. S. Bach, Robert Schumann, Bob Dylan and (many years ago!) the Rolling Stones. All this helped – but probably what gave me confidence to tackle the vast panorama of 2000 years of Christian music was having edited a handbook-style history of the church that seems to have worn well over several decades.
3. How has music strengthened your faith and the way you express it?
For me music – both choral and instrumental – best expresses and evokes our spirituality.
4. What do you hope readers will take from Christian Music?
Its variety, delight, invention and power.
5. What advice would you give anyone who might like to write a biography or a book of social history?
Patience, curiosity, innovation (and a thought for the reader!).
George Herbert’s short poem, ‘Church Music’ concludes with the lines:
‘But if I travel in your company,
You know the way to heaven’s door.’
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