An Evening Idyl

Gatty Sellars (1887-1938) was described during his career as “the world’s greatest descriptive organist.” He played on radio and in films, and was filmed playing his "At the Temple Gates," at Central Hall, Westminster, which you can see on youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJxhIVdCX98

A few days ago, our member Dabchurch was kind enough to send me a piece of music by William Faulkes. In his message, he asked if I'd ever come across the music of Gatty Sellers. I mentioned that I had only heard of him in passing. I actually learned of him from an upload by Steve Schlesing (Keys 61), where Sellars was the arranger:

http://www.contrebombarde.com/concerthall/music/10818

So, I liked these pieces, which I guess are "on the border" between theater and classical, but they ARE music, and you can make them work with a little effort.

"An Evening Idyl" was published in 1915, and is dedicated "To Mr. Clarence Eddy", the famous American organist.

This is a really nice, high romantic work, bordering and even leaning toward being "theatrical," and while I'm not usually a "tremolando fan," I've got 'em ON in this one!

While the Hereford Willis is FAR from a theater organ, you can make it work nicely on it!

The work is poetic, and expressive, and while some may find it "sentimental," I tried to be "clean" with it, without losing the need for the expressive side of it.

It's different from what some of you may like, and I doubt if too many play this "sort" of thing, but I liked doing it, and am pleased with how it came out.

This upload is dedicated to Keys61, for his kindness, his musicianship, and his valued presence on the Concert Hall.

THANK YOU, Steve!

I hope you like this! I couldn't help thinking of YOU as I was doing this, and was wondering (and hoping!) if this will qualify me for my "Honorary Theater Organist" lapel button! ;-)

The score is attached below, as well as a photos of Gatty Sellars and Clarence Eddy.