Marriage Benediction

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.

As I'm approaching my 3,000 upload, with 6 left to go, I thought I'd try to "end it" with 6 pieces by William Faulkes.

I haven't done one be him for awhile, so, I thought a few by him would be a good way to reach the mark.

"Marriage Benediction" was published by Schott in 1895. It is dedicated: "To Chas. H. Fogg, Esq. (Organist of S. Mary's Church, Crumpsall, Manchester). I'm sure it was written for the dedicatee's wedding, and I'm guessing that Faulkes played for the service.

It's a beautiful, late Romantic gem in the lush key of D-flat. Faulkes, and many other composers often wrote pieces "like this" in the same key.

Much more than just "background music," it has wonderful harmonies, and a great, long-spun melody.

The score is attached below, as well as photos of William Faulkes, St. Margaret's, Anfield, and one (I think, but am not certain) of St. Mary's Church, Crumpsall, which was demolished in the late 1970's.

MORE Faulkes coming soon! :-)