Devotion

Mark Andrews (March 31, 1875-December 10, 1939) was born in England Lincolnshire, Gainsborough, England and died in Montclair, New Jersey in the USA.

He studied with John Thomas Ruch and was appointed organist of Farmingham Parish Church, Surrey in 1895. He emigrated to the US on Oct. 4, 1903, moving to Montclair, New Jersey, and became organist of the First Congregational Church in Montclair, where he served from 1917 until 1938.

He published a number of organ works, including two large sonatas.

"Devotion" was published by the H. W. Gray Co., Inc. in 1939 as "No. 657" in their large and famous "St. Cecilia Series." It is dedicated: "To my friend John Chaney Platt."

The work was also published for organ, violin and harp, and this is obvious in the sounds and style of the composition.

"Devotion" is highly expressive, emotional, and yes, sentimental work, that carries the listener along in a flood of colorful harmonies and long-flowing melodies.

The idiomatic writing for a violin solo and harp-like accompanimental figures are evident, and rather fussy to bring to the organ. Hopefully, my listeners will think the results are effective.

I dedicate this upload with friendship and appreciation to Dr. John Henderson, Librarian of the Royal School of Church Music, who requested this performance and upload.

John has supplied this and MANY other scores, and it has been my pleasure to collaborate with him on some important projects.

I hope this rendition pleases you, Doc H! :-)

For an interesting "question of performance," please see the First Comment.

The score is attached below, as well a photo of Mark Andrews and one of the First Congregational Church in Montclair, New Jersey, where Andrews served as organist.