Andante

The following is taken from the top of the score of the piece:

The composer of this little piece died at Clifton College, where he was a musical scholar, at the age of 16. He was born in Gloucestershire, and from the age of eight he was for six years a chorister at St. Michael's College, Tenbury.

Here he was always composing. Many of these compostions (written exceedingly illegibly with a stubby pencil) were childish efforts of great promise, but no real achievement. But a few of his shorter compositions have real finish and style, and this is one of them.

Genius is a word to be used sparingly. Possibly he had it: at least no one could know him and not realize that he was a true musician.

The piece was published by Cramer in 1929 as part of their "Library of British Composers, Set. 3, No. 2." The editor and writer of the words was Martin Edward Fallas Shaw OBE FRCM (9 March 1875 – 24 October 1958) was an English composer, conductor and (in his early life) theatre producer. His over 300 published works include songs, hymns, carols, oratorios, several instrumental works, a congregational mass setting (the Anglican Folk Mass) and four operas including a ballad opera. Except in some places, he is largely forgotten, but when asked to describe him, Sir Michael Holroyd said: "A remarkable man who is insufficently recognized these days."

Shaw, along with his brother Geoffrey, were important musical figures of their day. Both men were involved with the restoration of the Catholic liturgy in the Anglican Church, and both composed music of high quality, but of the "technical level" that it could be sung in parish churches, where it enhanced and beautified the liturgy.

Out of the hundreds of choir boys that I've worked with over the years, some have definitely "had it." Many were from poor economic backgrounds, and a lot have gone on to successful careers in all walks of life.

I dedicate this with pride to ALL of them...

Score & photos below.