20th century English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams is perhaps best known for his symphonies and large-scale choral works, however the essence of his music can also be found in his songs. His 1903 House of Lifecyclefeatures 6 songs, out of which the most famous one is the second, Silent Noon. Composed before the rest of the cycle, and first published separately, this piece in E-flat major, for Voice and Piano caneasilystand alone.