Rhapsodie in G Minor ('O Filii et Filiae")

William Faulkes (1863-1933), composer, organist, pianist, arranger, recitalist, teacher, chamber musician, conductor, musical organizer. Remarkably, for a composer so fluent and prolific, Faulkes was consistently omitted from the major dictionaries of music. From time to time, he is found in smaller more specific dictionaries – or perhaps more correctly, directories from the late 19th and early 20th century. In these, Faulkes is sometimes described as a leader of the modern English school of organ playing; or a leading composer of the English romantic school of organ playing.

He was born in Liverpool, and at the age of 10 became a chorister at St. Margaret's Church, Anfield, which was the largest brick church in England, and had the largest organ in Liverpool. At the age of 18, he was appointed organist of St. John's, Tue Brook, and five years later returned to St. Margaret's. He had a fine all-male (all volunteer) choir, and the level of musical excellence at the church was significant. As an organist, he was a brilliant performer, and earned the admiration of the leading British organist of the, W. T. Best.

"Rhapsodie" is the perfect work for today, the Sunday after Easter, as it is based upon the hymn, "O sons and daughters, let us sing,"

There are several "Versions" of the 15th century French melody in use, and Faulkes sets the one most common in English usage. There is an introduction followed by four variations, and a return to the opening material with a short "conclusion" at the end. Like the West variations, it is in the key of G minor, and hearing it on the same organ makes for an interesting comparison.

I would say that Faulkes is a bit "modern" than West's setting. The harmonies are more daring, and the writing, with its octaves and pedal cadenzas is more virtuosic. Faulkes piece was published by Schott & Co. around 1905.

The score is attached below, as well as two photos of Faulkes and one of St. Margaret's Church, Anfield.