At Sundown

Rollo F. Maitland (10 December 1884 — 7 April 1953) was born near Williamsport, PA, and received his first musical instruction from his father. His only organ teacher was Dr. David D. Wood, an early proponent of Bach's organ music in America. Maitland was also a professional violinist. He earned fellow and choirmaster certificates from the American Guild of Organists, and headed the organ department at the Philadelphia Musical Academy, where he had earned his doctorate. In his career he performed major recitals and radio broadcasts on some of the country's largest and most famous instruments, including the Wanamaker organ in Philadelphia, and the Midmer-Losh Atlantic City Convention Hall organ. He composed numerous organ and piano pieces, as well as anthems and songs. He died in 1953 at the age of 68.

Rollo Maitland recorded for the Edison Diamond Disc label in 1927 and 1928. All of his recordings for Edison were done on the Midmer-Losh organ in the Edison Columbia Street recording studio. Dr. Maitland was prominent both as a classical organist and as a theatre organist.

"At Sundown (A Melody for Organ)" was published in 1927 by C. Harold Lowden Inc., Philadelphia. It is a superb example of the "popular style" of American organ music written in the early part of the 20th century. Like many such pieces, it walks the fine line between "classical and theatre organ," and, if one seeks an "historical correct performance," it must receive that "borderline treatment." The Salisbury Willis is FAR from a theatre organ, but it's rich colors more than do the trick.

In the final section, Maitland calls for the harp, and to give the effect, I tried "rolling" the chords, but the result was not satisfying, so, I played them "solidly."

The score is attached below, as well as photo of Maitland, a period postcard of the Convention Hall where the massive Midmer-Losh organ is, and a few "sunset" shots of
Atlantic City, perhaps something like the view his audience might see.