Scherzo in F (Allegro molto scherzando)

Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry, 1st Baronet (27 February 1848 – 7 October 1918) was an English composer, teacher and historian of music.

As a composer he is best known for the choral song "Jerusalem", the coronation anthem "I was glad", the choral and orchestral ode Blest Pair of Sirens," and the hymn tune "Repton", which sets the words "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind". His orchestral works include five symphonies and a set of Symphonic Variations.

He was a contributor to Grove's massive Dictionary of Music and Musicians in the 1870s and 80s, and then in 1883 as professor of composition and musical history at the Royal College of Music, of which Grove was the first head. In 1895 Parry succeeded Grove as head of the College, remaining in the post for the rest of his life. He was concurrently Heather Professor of Music at the University of Oxford from 1900 to 1908. Stanford rated him as the finest English composer since Henry Purcell. Edward Elgar learned much of his craft from Parry's articles in Grove's Dictionary, and among those who studied under Parry at the Royal College were Ralph Vaughan Williams, Gustav Holst, Frank Bridge and John Ireland.

Parry's "First Piano Sonata" was composed in 1873 or 1876, and first published in 1877. The 2nd movement, "Allegro molto scherzando" was later issued as a solo work, and I believe it was slightly altered. It is this version that our friend, Alec Rowley transcribed and arranged as an organ solo. This transcription was published by Edwin Ashdown in 1928.

Although the word "delightful" is overused, I can't think of anything more appropriate to say about this work! In this performance, you'll hear the contrasted dynamics largely achieved through varying combinations of flute stops. The noble, central melody is played upon the Clarinet of the Solo organ.

This piece is not easy, and will keep you moving from start to finish!

The score is attached below, as well as several photos of Parry, and one of Alec Rowley.