Prelude and Fugue in B Major

I first heard of Henry Martin on a bulletin board about music, back in 2007. The poster was singing the praises of his 24 Preludes and Fugues for piano, a sort of modern-day homage to J.S. Bach, sporting a unique fusion of Jazz with baroque forms. After buying the 2 CDs and subsequently falling in love with the music, I wrote to Henry to compliment him (and offhandedly ask whether he had ever considered writing for the organ!) To my surprise, he replied that he had just been asked by Michael Barone to write another set of 24 Preludes and Fugues, this time for the organ. He asked if I would be interested in getting them published, and the rest, (as they say) is history. With each succeeding piece, I sense Henry’s growth as a composer, and his increasing familiarity and comfort writing for the organ. I am biased, I admit, but this is great music. It isn’t easy to play, but it is very rewarding… do yourself a favor and give it a go – you won’t be sorry.

Parts of this piece remind me a bit of a jazzy version of Vierne... especially the prelude.

Score available at http://www.evensongmusic.net/?page_id=122