Meditation in D

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 at times, and 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.

Born in Liverpool, 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 time, W. T. Best.

"Meditation in D" was published by Schott & Co., London circa 1909 in their "Pieces for the Organ composed by William Faulkes" series.

Like many of Faulkes' "little" pieces, it is quite lengthy. Written in A-B-A form, the outer sections are a "violin-type" melody, more appropriate to the salon then to the church, but still noble enough. The central section, is more organ-like, but still preserves the lyrical, chamber music feel to the music.

One of the principal technical aspects of this piece is managing the use of the Swell box. My foot is almost constantly making tiny, relatively imperceptible increases and decreases. The Hereford Swell oboe is perfect for this, but it is not big, and needs to get "through" the Choir dulciana, which is not enclosed.

This melody is pure Faulkes and another wonderful "period piece"!

Watch out for more Fabulous Faulkes, as the D Minor Sonata is on the way!

The score is attached below as well as photos.