The Old Hundredth Psalm Tune

Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958) did not have a large output for solo organ, and he is not known for his keyboard works in general. But he was certainly familiar with the organ from his many choral works (oratorios, motets, etc.) where he used it in a largely accompanimental role.

In his "early" years, he was said to have been a superb organist, but his agnostic beliefs, and his disdain for the "church" in general, helped to "motivate his split" from the organ.

"The Old Hundredth Psalm Tune" was composed for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953. It was first performed at the event, held in Westminster Abbey, and under the direction of Sir William McKie, organist and master of the music at the Abbey.

The work, written for organ, orchestra, choir, congregation and the royal trumpeters was an instant hit, and has remained popular ever since. It has never been a favorite of mine, but I enjoyed making this recording... ;-)

At the top of the work, Vaughan Williams notes: "The metronome timing of 66 = a quarter note should never be exceeded. In Cathedrals and other large buildings the pace should be even slower."

The tempo marked at the start of the piece is "Very slow." However, with all the flourishes, it doesn't seem all that "slow," although the "plain" verses may feel a bit ponderous when listening to it played as an organ solo.

At the bottom of the first page, the following info is given: "The opening flourish is adapted from the composer's Cantata, "The Hundredth Psalm." The harmonization of verse 2 is taken from "Songs of Praise." The Faux-bourdon in verse 4 is by John Dowland (1621).

The score is included, as well as an early photograph of RVW.

The text is by W. Kethe, and taken from Daey's Psalter, 1560-1).

The complete text is given in the first comment.

I dedicate this to all the "English music" lovers here on the Concert Hall! :-)