| Description: | Ernest Alfred Dicks (1865-1948) was an organist in Cheltenham, and also to the Royal Masonic Lodge. He published several collections, including these fine set of "Hymn Tune Voluntaries - Twelve Pieces for Organ in Various Styles founded on Favourite Psalm and Hymn Tunes," published by Bayley & Ferguson in 1923.
"Thanksgiving Prelude on 'Nun Danket'" is the first in the collection. It is dedicated: "To Dr. A. Herbert Brewer".
Sir Alfred Herbert Brewer (21 June 1865 – 1 March 1928) was an English composer and organist. As organist of Gloucester Cathedral from 1896 until his death, he contributed a good deal to the Three Choirs Festival for 30 years.
For the subject of the piece, the composer uses the famous tune by Johann Crüger (1598-1662), always linked to the words, "Now thank we all our God".
Dicks is actually quite "daring" in this work as he changes keys rapidly, not to mention rapid shifts in dynamics and registrations. The piece is quite exciting and successful, and avoids a disconnected feeling, despite the variety within.
The score is attached below - actually in two pdf's, as the main score omits 2 pages from this work, which are in the second pdf.
Also attached is a photo of Ernest Dicks, several of A. Herbert Brewer, and one showing the Quire and Organ of Gloucester Cathedral.
Whether you're celebrating the American holiday of Thanksgiving or not, I wish you all a safe, happy and thankful day! |
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