Grand Chœur alla Handel

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.

"Grand Chœur alla Handel" was published by the Vincent Music Co. Ltd. as No. 235 in "The Organ Loft" series.

It is a bright E major, and marked to be played "Tempo ordinary".

The piece makes a fine "impersonation" of the grand style of some Handel works, but in a early 20's "English cathedral" package.
The form is A-B-A, and the central section is softer, but not slower, and contrasts well with the framing sections.

The work would make an excellent festival postlude, and would also serve well as an "audition piece" if you want to make a splash at a job audition! :-)

This piece was "suggested" by our member "Dabchurch" when he commented on the Henry Hackett "Abendlied," since this piece directly proceeds that piece in the same publication.

So, this piece is dedicated with friendship to you, David!

The score is attached below, as well as the now famous two photos of Faulkes and some of St. Margaret's Church, Anfield.