Prelude on "Darwall"

Thomas Frederick Handel Candlyn (1892–1964) was an English-born organist, composer and choirmaster who spent most of his professional career at two Episcopal Church congregations in New York.

He was born December 17, 1892 in Davenham, Cheshire, England, the son of Thomas John Candlyn, an organist, and received the Bachelor of Music degree from Durham University in 1911. In 1915 he was offered the position of organist and choirmaster at St. Paul’s Church, Albany, and he emigrated to the United States. He was to remain at St. Paul’s for twenty-eight years. In 1918 he became a United States citizen.

In 1943 he succeeded T. Tertius Noble as organist and choirmaster at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, New York, where he remained until his retirement in 1954. He composed two hundred works, primarily anthems, cantatas, service settings and organ solos.

"Prelude on 'Darwall," was published by Abingdon Press in 1961. Although it comes from near the end of Candlyn's life, the music has lost NONE of it's zest or unique creativity.

Candlyn gives the majestic melody, composed by John Darwall (1732-1789) a daring and brilliant treatment, varying textures, colors, and tonalities. If you have enjoyed other uploads of Candlyn's music, you'll know that he covers a lot of ground without much waster, and this prelude is no exception!

When you look at his metronome mark, my first reaction was that it was too quick, but after doing the piece at his tempo, I'd say that it is exactly "on the mark" in terms of pace.

This tune is often known as "Darwall's 148th," and sung as a metrical version of Psalm 148. It is most closely associated with the texts: "Rejoice, the Lord is King" and "Ye holy angels bright".

I dedicate this with friendship to Erzahler. Glad to have you back, Andrew! :-)

The score is attached below, as well as the MIDI of the performance, several photos of Candlyn and of St. Paul's Church in Albany, and one of a Darwall manuscript.

More Alfred Hollins tomorrow!