Four Tone Pictures

Homer C Nearing (1895-1986), was born in Springfield, Missouri, and graduated from the Kansas City Conservatory of music. During his career, he was a music professor and church musician from 1914 until 1920 in Texas.

"Four Tone Pictures" were published by The Boston Music Co. in 1965. I think these may be Nearing's last compositions. Each of the four movements is dedicated to a famous American organist.

The first, "In the Woods" is dedicated: "To the memory of Edwin Arthur Kraft." (1883-1962) Kraft was well-known as a concert organist, particularly for his orchestral style of playing. He had a long and distinguished career as Organist of Trinity Cathedral in Cleveland.

"In the Woods" is the most "orchestral" and certainly the most impressionistic piece in the group.

The second, "The Village Church" is dedicated: "To Leo Sowerby." (1895-1968) Sowerby was famous as organist, teacher and composer, who also had a distinguished career at St. James Church (now Cathedral) in Chicago.

The title, "The Village Church" conjures up peaceful images, but the entire movement, based upon the Westminster Chime is really a constant crescendo and acceleration, beginning softly and leading to a massive conclusion.

The third, "Along the Stream" is dedicated: "To T(homas) Frederick H(andel) Candlyn." (1892-1964) Candlyn was a fine composer and organist who is most remembered for has career as Organist of St. Thomas Church in NYC.

"Along the Stream" is picturesque and happy. :-) Also quite impressionistic, the harmonies are less chromatically inclined.

The fourth, "At the Summit" is dedicated: "To Seth Bingham" (1882-1972) Bingham was one of the leading organists of his day as well as a prolific composer. He had a long career as Organist of Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church in NYC.

"At the Summit" is ever climbing, always seeking to make the top. The steps are big and angular, and the eventual arrival is impressive.

The score & photos of the dedicatees are belo.w