Serenade

Guy Michell (1876-1939) was an organist in Brighton. He was a student of the great Edwin H. Lemare. Lemare had very few students, so he must have held Michell in high esteem.

He published a number of works, and played largely French repertoire as well as his own compositions in his numerous recitals.

"Serenade" was published in 1911 by The Vincent Music Co. Ltd. as "No. 234" in "The Organ Loft" series. It is dedicated: "To F. Rowland Tims Esq. F. R. C. O."

To be honest, I decided to give this piece a try only because I just uploaded the other two pieces in the volume. I took a chance that it might be worth doing, and I am SO glad that I did!

It's another one of those forgotten, unknown, "insignificant" wonderful works, that make the spirit soar and deeply touch the heart.

In the key of C major, the first section features a long-spun melody that floats above the rhythmic accompaniment. There are some technical spots to deal with, but these all sound easy if you can do them smoothly.

The middle section is in A-flat major and features a steady crescendo and more animation. A great climax is reached then interrupted, and a brief bridge takes us back to the first section, which is repeated in its entirety.

There is a short "coda" that brings the piece to a magical summation, leaving us with only the Solo unda maris over the 32' open wood on the final, hushed chord.

The style is old-fashioned and comforting, even healing.

The Programme Annotation printed on the score reads: "A characteristic "Serenade" virtually a song without words. The movement gives excellent opportunities for effective use of the solo stops. The middle section is in distinct contrast to the principal theme."

Finding this piece was just pure chance, so, I encourage everyone to explore and try things that might look "indifferent" on paper, but to prove to be very special in the musical outcome!

I have no further information about or photos of Michell, but the score is attached below.