Chant Angélique

Charles Grey (1849-1923) was born in Norfolk, England. His father was also an organist.

He taught at the London College of Music, and published quite a number of compositions, most of which are of a light nature.

I'm afraid that I don't have any other information about Charles Grey. He was prolific and published a large number of works, almost all of them being of a "light" nature.

"Chant Angélique" can be found in the "Yellow Album" of organ pieces, published by Schott around 1910.

The work begins with a simple and attractive melody, played with a light syncopated accompaniment. A central section of contrast builds up to a bigger dynamic, but this falls back as the opening melody returns, played upon a different solo stop.

This leads into a grandiose chorale-like setting of the opening melody, but this time is a massive hymn, which builds up to full organ at the end.

As in the "Grande Marche Triomphale" the use of octaves features prominently. These octaves and big chords are very hard to get perfectly legato, even when divided between the hands.

The score is attached below, as well as what MAY be a photo of Charles Grey.