Scherzo Caprice

Alec Rowley was born in London on 13 March 1892, teacher, composer, organist, pianist, lecturer and writer, who studied at the RAM with Frederick Corder and where he won sundry scholarships and prizes. He was an organist at several London churches including, during the Second World War, St Margaret's, Westminster. He died on 11 January 1958 while playing tennis.

Rowley was a superb teacher, who did much to assist the student. Unfortunately, this labeled him as a "writer of children's music" in the eyes of some.

He was a fine organist, have gained his FRCO by the time he was 16. His largest organist position was at St. Alban's, Teddington, a large and important church. It was during his time at this church that Rowley married and then divorced. Divorce for someone working in the church was not tolerated, and Rowley was forced to leave his position.

Since Rowley was no longer a "performing organist," I think it's possible that many of his later works received few performances.

"Scherzo Caprice" is an early work dating from 1914, and found in "Album of (Rowley) Organ Pieces." It is dedicated: "To Dr. H. W. Richards" - who MAY have been the vicar of St. John's, Richmond, where Rowley was organist at the time of composition.

Despite the fact that this is an early work, it shows all the fingerprints of the composer's later works, in terms of the harmonies and in the use of the organ. Rowley is often at his best in these "concise, elf-like" movements, and this one is no exception!

The score is attached below - it is the final work in the book, beginning on page 26. Also are attached are several photos of the composer, which I'm sure are VERY well-known by any of the listeners! Also attached is a photo of St. John's Church, Richmond.

The "Rowley Riot" now has ONLY THREE works left to go before completion! They are: the "Chorale Prelude on 'Winchester New'", the "Heroic Suite", and the "Sonata in A Minor."

Hopefully I will be able to get these done!