A Pastoral Tune

Odd is it is, I can find absolutely nothing about Godfrey Sampson (1902-1946), the composer of this lovely pastoral.

"A Pastoral Tune" was originally composed for violin and piano, and was published in 1936. It was transcribed by the composer at the same time, and it is as an organ solo that the work has survived.

Sampson is most well-known for his lovely anthem, "My song shall be alway of the loving-kindness of the Lord", as setting of words from Psalm 89. This work is also in a "pastoral mood" and has always been enjoyed by both choirs and congregations on the occasions that I've done it.

This work heard here is quite "modern" in its essence. It is absolutely English in mood and texture. When I say "modern" I mean that it looks forward to the works of composers like Herbert Sumsion who wrote many pieces in this format.

The work is marked to be played "Allegretto e semplice", and since the original was for solo violin, I've used the Violoncello with tremulant from the Solo organ for the tune.

The score is attached below.