Allegretto scherzando, Op. 38, No. 4

William Wolstenholme was born in Blackburn, Lancashire on 24 February 1865. He was blind from birth and was was educated at the Worcester College for the Blind Sons of Gentlemen. He showed considerable promise as a musician and impressed Henry Smart who agreed to take him as a pupil. Alas, Smart died before lessons began. He studied the violin under Edward Elgar. In 1887 he went up to Oxford University where he later graduated as a Bachelor of Music.

In 1888 he was appointed organist and choirmaster of St Paul’s Church, Blackburn and began to consolidate his position as a teacher, recitalist and improviser. Fourteen years later he accepted the post of organist at All Saint’s Church Norfolk Square, Paddington and afterwards at All Saints, St. John’s Wood. In 1908 he undertook a major concert tour of the United States.

Stylistically, he has been referred to as the ‘English Cesar Franck’ and although this may be unfair to both composers it is a reasonable rule of thumb and gives the listener a good idea of the kind and quality of music to expect. It is also possible that he can be bracketed with Alfred Hollins and Basil Harwood.

"Allegretto scherzando" is the fourth work in the composer's Op. 38. It was published in 1901 by the Vincent Music Co.

It is everything that title implies, gving the impression of a bunch of elves hopping merrily around the forest at midnight!

The form is A-B-A, and the central section, marked "Lento" contrasts beautifully with the more lively framing sections.

The work is dedicated: "To Clarence Eddy, Esq." Clarence Eddy (1851-1937) was preeminent amongst American organists of the day. He had been a student of Buck, Guilmant, Best, and Franck, along with other notable organists.

The score is attached below, as well as some photos of Wolstenholme, his family home, several of the churches at which he served as organist. Also attached are photos of Clarence Eddy and of First Presbyterian Church in Chicago.