Cantabile (Symphonic Fantasy on 'St. Patrick's Breastplate'

Joseph Waddell Clokey (August 28, 1890, New Albany, Indiana – September 14, 1960, Covina, California) was a student of Edgar Stillman Kelley. He served as dean of the School of Fine Arts at his alma mater, Miami University 1939-46 and had previously been professor of organ at Miami University (1916–1923) and Pomona College. His work included two symphonies including the "Dorian" Symphony, two orchestral suites, a string quartet, a cello and violin sonata, twelve choral works in large form, five operas, organ suites, many organ pieces, and more than a hundred published choral works.

I've always been fascinated by the title of the work that "Cantabile" is the middle movement of - the "Symphonic Fantasy on 'St. Patrick's Breastplate'", but alas, this is "only" the slow movement. However, don't be too "alassed" as this is a wonderful movement! For such pieces, you really need an organ like this venerable E M Skinner. I had almost "forgotten" what it was like to play one of these! Yes, I know that this is an "early" sample set that needs some updating, but you really won't hear ANY of the "shortcomings" in this recording - thanks to the organ - NOT me!

It makes use of the Chimes and the Harp, and yes, I use most of the solo reeds in this as well. The Oboe d'Amour, Clarinet, Orchestral Oboe, and French Horn all have their moments. You have to play these pieces in an "orchestral manner" if you're going to play it on an organ such as this. Looking at the score (which is attached) you could be very "straight" with the opening, but I think that it would miss the whole point and effect if you were... ;-)

You can find this and other works by Clokey here: http://imslp.org/wiki/Category:Clokey,_Joseph_Waddell

I don't know who David Campbell is, but this gentleman has scanned and uploaded an astounded number of scores that have been impossible to find for years! This is one of them, so, THANK YOU, Mr. Campbell.