Hymn Tune Prelude on 'PICARDY'

The following notes are largely as prepared by our highly esteemed member, Agnus_Dei. I have added the last paragraph only.

Alec Rowley was born in London on 13 March 1892, teacher, composer, organist, pianist, lecturer and writer, who studied at the RAM with Frederick Corder and where he won sundry scholarships and prizes. He was an organist at several London churches including, during the Second World War, St Margaret's, Westminster. He died on 11 January 1958 while playing tennis.

Rowley was a superb teacher, who did much to assist the student. Unfortunately, this labelled him as a "writer of children's music" in the eyes of some.

He was a fine organist, having gained his FRCO by the time he was 16. His largest organist position was at St. Alban's, Teddington, a large and important church.

He taught composition at Trinity College, London. Rowley broadcast frequently in piano duet repertoire with Edgar Moy. His more demanding work as a composer has been unfairly neglected.