Serenade

Ernest Halsey was born in Battersea, London in April of 1876. He was Organist of Anerley Congregational Church, London, around 1903.

Halsey was also a stockbroker. He died at Marylebone, London on June 20th, 1939.

"Serenade" is uplifting, calming and refreshing. It really is a delightful little jewel, that really belongs in my "Summertime Dream" series!

It was published by the Vincent Music Co. Ltd. in 1911, and the score instructs the performer to include the following "Programme Anontation!"

"A delightful melody, violin-like in character, with an effective accompaniment containing some charming harmonic passages. The middle theme and first subject are cleverly worked together towards the close of the piece."

Actually, that is a perfect description of the piece!

Not all that easy, as the continuous "ticking" pedal part keeps you hopping from start to finish.

It was particularly gratifying to hear the results of this piece, as some of things that I worked very hard with Ben Trenchard, creator of the sample set, was the balance and blending of the soft stops, as well as the ever "questionable balance" of things like the 16' Pedal Bourdon and 8' Bass Flute. Based on this, I think we got it right!!!

I dedicate this upload to one of my first "Concert Hall friends," our memeber, "Qudomo".

I hope you like this, Corey!

The score is attached below, and while I could find no photo of Ernest Halsey, I did find an old postcard of Anerley Congregational Church, where he served as organist.

Peace to All!