The Temple March (Temple Church, London)

Charles Vincent (19th September 1852 - 28th February 1934.

He 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, 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.

"The Temple March" comes from a collection entitled, "Twelve Postludes or Concluding Voluntaries," where it is the 6th in the group. It was published by the Vincent Music Company, Ltd. in 1902, a company that was owned (I think) by his brother, George.

This work takes its title from the fact that it is dedicated "To my friend E. J. Hopkins.", who was organist of the Temple Church in London.

The venerable Dr. Edward James Hopkins (1818-1901) was one of the major organ figures of the era, and was organist of the Temple Church from 1843-1898. To all accounts he was a brilliant player.

"The Temple March" is highly "listener friendly," and while it will probably sound a bit "old-fashioned and forgotten" to some ears, it still comes across very nicely.

I think I'll take a look at a few more pieces from the collection, as some of them appear to be both grand and fun, which is always a winning combination. :-)

The score is attached below. I have no photos of Charles Vincent, but I do have some pictures of Christ Church Hampstead. Also attached is a photo of E. J. Hopkins, and some of the Temple Church, including a picture of the "new organ" taken by our very own, Erzahler! (THANKS, Andrew!)