Concert Prelude and Fugue

William Faulkes (1863-1933), composer,
organist, pianist, arranger, recitalist, teacher, chamber musician, conductor, musical organizer. Remarkably, for a composer so fluent and prolific, Faulkes was consistently omitted from the major dictionaries of music. From time to time, he is found in smaller more specific dictionaries at times, and is sometimes described as a leader of the modern English school of organ playing; or a leading composer of the English romantic school of organ playing.

Born in Liverpool, at the age of 10 became a chorister at St. Margaret's Church, Anfield, which was the largest brick church in England, and had the largest organ in Liverpool. At the age of 18, he was appointed organist of St. John's, Tue Brook, and five years later returned to St. Margaret's. He had a fine all-male (all volunteer) choir, and the level of musical excellence at the church was significant. As an organist, he was a brilliant performer, and earned the admiration of the leading British organist of the time, W. T. Best.

"Concert Prelude and Fugue" was published by G. Schirmer in 1906. It is dedicated: "To William Reed, Esq. (Quebec)".

William Reed (9 September 1859 – 2 November 1945) was a Canadian organist, choir conductor, and composer. He held numerous organ and choirmaster posts in churches throughout Canada from 1884 until 1913. His career in this area was cut short as his deafness worsened. He spent the remainder of his career composing, which included choral and works for solo organ.

"Concert Prelude and Fugue" is a fine work. Written in the key of G, the prelude reminded me of the opening movement of Rheinberger's 3rd "Pastorale Sonata" in G, while the fugue seemed to recall some stylistic elements of Bach's "Great G Major Fugue".

I'm not sure why this is a "concert" work, but it is solid and brilliant without doubt.

The score is attached below, as well photos of William Faulkes, plus a "new" and better one of St. Margaret's Church, Anfield.