In India

The name of Roy Spaulding Stoughton, used to be quite well-known, although you don't hear too much about him these days.

He was born in Worcester, Massachusetts on January 28, 1884, and died on February 1, 1953. The little bit of information that I have on him says (as of 1919) that he "is a teller in a Bank, and is not at present engaged actively as an organist, devoting all his spare time to composition."

His work in a bank, along with his unique and colorful writing certainly give him claim for an "unusual position" in the organ world!

All of his pieces, are elaborate, highly evocative works, that will challenge the performer in terms of technical execution and registrational aptitude.

"In India" was published by White-Smith Music Publishing Co. in 1918. It is in five movements, all of which are dedicated: "To Wesley Ray Burroughs".

Burroughs was a well-known theater organist and a pupil of Dr. William C. Carl, a former student of Guilmant. He had been organist of the Delaware Baptist Church in Buffalo, NY from 1908-1913, and held several prominent theater positions.

"In India" consists of five movements: 1) "The Grove of Palms" depicts the stately sway of tall, stately trees. 2) "By the Ganges" presents different aspects of the sacred river, although the flow of the water is always present. 3) The Dancing Girls of Delhi - presents the practiced movements of professional dancers, the motions from which are to delight the eye, as do the colors heard here delight the ear. 4) "Incantation" is slow, intense and mystical. 5) "In the Palace of the Rajah" is in three sections, with both of the outer sections being preceded by a fanfare. These outer movements frame a lyrical middle section, one that sums up many of the musical ideas heard throughout the piece.

The score is attached below, as well as a photo of R. S. Stoughton. Also included are paintings, in hopes of "illustrating" the music.

Please see the FIRST COMMENT for timings & a personal note.