Allegro pomposo in D

Charles Vincent (19th September 1852 - 28th February 1934), Mus.B. (Oxon, 1878), Mus.D. (Oxon, 1885), was born at Houghtonle Spring, Durham, and, beginning in 1864, was a chorister at the Cathedral under Dr. Philip Armes.

He studied at the Leipzig Conservatory under Dr Karl Reinecke, and held a number of church appointments: 1875-76. Organist of Monkwearmouth Parish Church, 1864-68; St. Mark’s, Sunderland; Tavistock Parish Church, 1877-83; Kelly College, Tavistock, 1877-83; and Christ Church, Hampstead, 1883-91.

He was editor of the “Organist and Choirmaster”; founded the Vincent Music Publishing Co.; taught harmony at Trinity College London. Composed cantatas, organ pieces, songs, &c. Son of C. J. Vincent; brother of George F. Vincent and H. S. Vincent. He served as examiner for Trinity College, London, travelling to South Africa and Australia.

He died in Monte Carlo in 1934.

He wrote quite a bit of organ music, all of which is certainly "of the period," but much of it has great appeal.

"Allegro pomposo in D" comes from a collection entitled, "Twelve Postludes or Concluding Voluntaries," where it is the 3rd in the group. It was published by the Vincent Music Company, Ltd. in 1900. It is: "Dedicated to Hugh Blair, Esq. M.A., Mus. Bac.Cantab."

The work is grand and sweeping, but still concise. The "framing sections" really have 2 "parts" to them, the first loud, and the second softer and a bit slower. There is a central "trio" that contrasts nicely with the opening material. The conclusion is very grand, and the energy is maintained right to the end.

The work is reminiscent of Elgar, which is appropriate, since Blair, who was organist of Worcester Cathedral, was close friends with Sir Edward.

The score is attached below, as well as 2 photos of Charles Vincent, and 2 photos of Hugh Blair, one with the Choir of Worcester Cathedral.