Cathedral Song (Four Songs for Organ)

The second piece in the collection is the "Cathedral Song".

Utterback writes that "Cathedral Song" was inspired by his visit to Canterbury Cathedral in May of 1994, the soaring thrust of the Bell Harry Tower, and the ethereal serenity created by a perspective of the tower's magnificent vaulting viewed from the nave.

The work begins quiety on the Swell strings, has some "solo" sections that feature the Solo Clarinet, followed by an attractive surge and crescendo to an impressive climax. The piece ends in the same style as it began.

Despite the "new-agey overtones" of this and all these pieces, I found this one to be a rewarding playing and listening experience.

"Cathedral Song" is inscribed "for Vance Harper Jones".