Liebeslied

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.

"Liebeslied" can be found in "The Organ Loft, Volume 72" published by the Vincent Music. Co. Ltd. in 1911. It appears there as "No. 233."

Written in the "soft key" of A-flat major, "Liebeslied" is marked to be played "Larghetto," which I did (I think!), but avoided dragging it, as this would just kill the flow.

The Solo Clarinet, Solo Violoncello & 'Cello Celeste and the Great Stopped Diapason are featured as the "solo voices," and heard set against the Swell strings.

The score is attached below, as well as two photos of William Faulkes, and two of St.St. Margaret's, Anfield, where Faulkes was organist.

MORE Faukes coming soon!