Melody in F (Ten Pieces, No. 5)

Dr. Francis Edward Gladstone, was born at Summertown, near Oxford, March 2,1845. When 14 he was articled to Dr. S. S. Wesley, with whom he remained at Winchester for five years. After being organist for two years at Holy Trinity Church, Weston-super-Mare, in 1866 he obtained the post of organist at Llandaff Cathedral. In March 1870 Mr. Gladstone was appointed organist at Chichester Cathedral, but three years later he moved to Brighton, where he remained until 1876, when after a short residence in London he accepted the post of organist at Norwich Cathedral, which he resigned in 1881. Dr. Gladstone then became organist to Christ Church, Lancaster Gate, London, a post which ill health compelled him to resign in 1886.

He took the degree of Mus. B. Cantab, in 1876, and shortly after was made an Honorary Member of the Royal Academy of Music. He took the degree of Mus. D. in 1879, and is also a Fellow of the College of Organists, a Member of the Board of Musical Studies at Cambridge, and a teacher of organ, etc., at the Royal College of Music.

He was received into the Roman Catholic Church, and was appointed director of the choir at St. Mary of the Angels, Bayswater. He composed a large number of organ solos, as well anthems and service settings.

"Ten Pieces" was published by Augener, Ltd. I received these score through the kindness of Dr. John Henderson. They are VERY rare, so, if you have an interest in English organ music, you should download these.

"Melody in F" is the fifth work in the collection, and really shows the influence of Gladstone's teacher, S. S. Wesley.

Marked to be played "Andante," there is a feeling of "18th century delicacy" in this work. Attentiveness to details will help to create a polished outcome. :-)

It appears that these 2 "melodies" (G & F) were quite popular recital works.

The score is attached below, as well as a photo of Dr. Gladstone, as well as photos of some of the cathedrals and churches at which he served.