Purcell James Mansfield (1889-1968), the transcriber of these works, was the son of the organist, Dr. Orlando Mansfield. He was an accomplished organist and pianist by an early age, and had a long and distinguished career as organist, composer, adjudicator and conductor. He held a number of important posts, including the position at Park Parish Church in Glasgow, which was considered to be one of the most desirable posts in Great Britain at the time.
"Carillon (in the style of a Toccata)" was published by W. Paxton and Co. Ltd. It is dedicated: "To my friend, A. R. Davidson, Esq."
This fine and grandiose piece is something of a cross between a French toccata and an English fanfare. There are elements of both "national styles," but the harmony is decidedly English.
There is a middle section played upon the Vox Humana, interspersed by pedal solos that recall the framing, outer sections.
The whole, overall effect is that of huge bells, ringing with measured joy. The effect grows larger and larger, and the work concludes with a brief fanfare on the Solo Tuba.
I have several other works by J. Purcell Mansfield, and I'll take a look at them, just in case I find another nice one or two.
The score is attached below, as well as a photo of James Purcell Mansfield, and one of Park Parish Church in Glasgow, where he served as organist for a time.
To here some great transcriptions of works by Harry Farjeon done by Purcell Mansfield, you may like (love!) these:
http://www.contrebombarde.com/concerthall/music/27185
http://www.contrebombarde.com/concerthall/music/27186
http://www.contrebombarde.com/concerthall/music/27187
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