Lent (Interlude) - Pieces for Four Seasons, No. 2

Norman Gilbert (1912-1975) grew up in Yorkshire and was a student of Sir Edward Bairstow at York Minster. During the 1930's he held positions at St. John's Church, Halifax and St. Paul's Church, Llandudno. Shortly after release from war service, he was appointed Music Master of Headlands Grammar School in Swindon, Wiltshire.

"Lent (Interlude)" is the 2nd of his "Pieces for Four Seasons," the other three being for Christmas, Easter (coming soon!), and Whitsuntide. Published in 1959, this is No. 17 in "Novello's Organ Music Club" series.

Written in a neo-modal style, this piece has a flavor of works like Herbert Howells' "Master Tallis' Testament" about it. The writing is flowing, and the harmonies are conservative, with a little touch of Tudor here and there. You can also hear the influence of Vaughan Williams, as well as the general "1950's sound" of British organ music.

The composer writes: "'Interlude' needs plenty of expression and some use of rubato."

Although Gilbert was a student of Bairstow, I personally don't see him as a part of the "cathedral style" group. His music is distinctive, and is often designed to be played or sung by school musicians.

I've included a photo on Norman Gilbert, scanned from the music booklet.

If you are interested in getting a copy of this work, or any other work that I do not upload the score with the performance, please feel free to send me a Direct Message.

I'm planning on making this an "All English Holy Week and Easter (almost), and hope to upload something on each day in Holy Week.