In 1947 he became an assistant lecturer in music at the University of Cambridge, then a full lecturer in 1952, a finally a professor of music in 1962. In 1964 he was named King Edward Professor of Music at King’s College of the University of London.

As a performing musician, he made numerous appearances on the harpsichord. He also appeared as organist and performer on Baroque keyboard instruments.

He served as editor of the Galpin Society Journal from 1947 to 1954 and secretary of the documentary edition Musica Britannica from 1950 to 1965. His magnum opus was The Interpretation of Music (London, 1954). He also edited works by Morley, Purcell, John Bull, and others.