Canzona (Seven Sketches, Op. 34, No. 5)

Edward Shippen Barnes (September 14, 1887 in Seabright, New Jersey – February 14, 1958, in Idyllwild, California) was an American organist. He was a graduate of Yale University where he studied with Horatio Parker and Harry Jepson. After graduating from Yale, Barnes continued his studies in Paris with Louis Vierne,Vincent D'Indy, and Abel Decaux. He worked as organist at the Church of the Incarnation, New York (1911–1912), Rutgers Presbyterian Church, New York (1913–1924), St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Philadelphia (1924–1938), and the First Presbyterian Church, Santa Monica (1938–1958).

Although he is largely forgotten as a composer, Barnes was quite successful, composing several signifcant organ symphonies, suites, and shorter works. He is most remembered for his harmonization of the Christmas carol, "Angels, we have heard on high," appearing in most American hymnals.

"Seven Sketches" were published by The Boston Music Co. in 1923. The group of pieces shows considerable variety. Some of the works show the strong influence of Louis Vierne, while others are much more "American" in their outlook.

The fourth work in the collection is "Canzona".

Here again, the French influence is strong. I'm no expert on the music of Vierne, but I'd say this shows his strong influence, despite some "American" overtones. The piece is expressive and quite suave.

The first "solo" voice heard is the Solo Clarinet with tremulant. The second is the Horn of the Swell, along with a slightly increased accompaniment. The Clarinet returns, and finally the Swell strings appear.

The Horn is very round and full-toned, and probably a little too strong to make a perfect balance against the Clarinet. It's an expressive stop, and can be used in the full Swell, although it's quite big and can overly dominate the ensemble.

The score is attached below, as well as photos of Edwin Shippen Barnes and Lynwood Farnam, as well as some of the churches where Barnes served as organist.