The New English Renaissance is a movement occurring in the 1970’s and 1980’s as interest was renewed in hymn writing.  This movement sought to revitalize the song of the church by writing new texts and tunes while adapting to modern language, theological beliefs, and both social and political standpoints.  Harry Eskew’s field work and involvement in this movement allows us a unique lens into the inner workings of the New English Renaissance. Through the lens of Harry Eskew, we find a transatlantic exchange of hymn text, tunes, and both theological and political ideas.  

Harry Eskew’s work with the Hymn Society of America allowed him resources and the means to contact and build relationships with hymn writers “across the pond.”  Harry Eskew formed connections with hymn writers such as Fred Pratt Green, Fred Kaan, and Brian Wren, each of whom we will be looking at in greater detail in regards to their work, beliefs, and their correspondence with Eskew.  Harry Eskew played an integral part in this great exchange between American and Western European congregational song.  Due to Eskew’s work, he was able to bring many hymn writers to tour America, speaking about and sharing the music they had written.  Eskew also connected many hymnal committees to the world of these artists.

The Special Collections department at Baylor University was gifted the correspondences of Harry Eskew a number of years ago.  This collection comprises hundreds of letters exchanged between Eskew and hymn writers, and also includes several tape-recorded interviews.