A Song of Dawn

Charles Vincent (19th September 1852 - 28th February 1934) was born at Houghtonle Spring, Durham, and, beginning in 1864, was a chorister at the Cathedral under Dr. Philip Armes. (This shows just HOW MUCH LATER boys' voices were changing then they are today!!!)

In 1869 he became organist at Monkwearmouth Parish Church, and began study at the Leipzig Conservatory in 1876. He was later organist at Tavistock and of Kelly College.

He graduated Mus. Bac., Oxon. in 1878 and Mus. Doc., Oxon. in 1885.

He was organist of Christ Church, Hampstead, London from 1883-1891, and served as an Examiner for Trinity College, London, travelling to South Africa and Australia.

He wrote quite a bit of organ music, all of which is certainly "of the period," but much of it has great appeal. "A Sunset Melody" was perhaps his most popular and well-known (in its day) work.

"A Song of Dawn" was published by The Vincent Music Company Ltd. in 1906. It is certainly one of those "period pieces," which may go unloved for being too sentimental.
Still, it is full of color, shows many solo stops, and is very much at home on the Peterborough Hill. There is a wide dynamic range in this work, so, some spots may seem very soft.

The work is dedicated "To my friend Hugh Blair" (1864-1932) who was organist of Worcester Cathedral, and a composer of some repute.

In the title, it states that "A Song of Dawn" is a "Companion piece to 'A Sunset Melody.'"

The score is attached below, as well as photos of Monkwearmouth Parish Church, Christ Church, Hampstead, and one of Hugh Blair with the Choir of Worcester Cathedral.

Work continues on the Peterborough sample set, which is nearing completion.

I have lowered the blower volume to about 75%. Also, the sound of the tremulants and of the stop and key action has been left as it really is. Please note the sounds in this volume of the sample set are recorded "at the console."