Ivor Gurney (1890-1937) was one of the fine song writers England produced earlier this century (Ireland and Warlock were of the same vintage): but he was also a poet of distinction and originality. his double gifts unparalleled since Thomas Cam pian in Elizabethan times. Michael Hurd , author of a recent book on Gurney. presents the first in a five-part biographical series. in which LAURIE LEE reads the poems, and NIGELWICKENS(baritone) accompanied by PAUL HAM BURGER,and ANN MURRAY (mezzo-soprano) accompanied by GRAHAM JOHNSON , perform the songs.