Prelude and Fugue in E Minor

Thomas Attwood Walmisley (21 January 1814 – 17 January 1856) was born in London, the son of Thomas Forbes Gerrard Walmisley (1783-1856), a well-known organist and composer of church music and glees. Thomas Attwood was his godfather, and the boy was educated in music under their tuition.

Walmisley was organist of Croydon Parish Church in 1830 before becoming organist at Trinity College, Cambridge in 1833, and there he soon became prominent by his anthems and other compositions. He was simultaneously organist for the Choir of St John's College, Cambridge. He not only took the degrees of Mus.Bac. and Mus.Doc., but also graduated at Jesus College as BA and MA.

In 1836 Walmisley was made Professor of Music at Cambridge. His Cathedral Music was edited after his death by his father.

While he is chiefly remembered for his superb setting of the Magnificat & Nunc Dimittis in D Minor, was one of a number of ill-fated young prodigies who were expected to develop into "the English Mozart".

Nevertheless, his position in history is an important one.

His "Prelude and Fugue in E Minor" is a substantial work. According to the score, it was written for Novello's "Select Organ Pieces," published in 1839. It was edited by John E. West (1863-1929) for his well-known series "Old English Organ Music" (see the note in the First Comment.

The work is impressive. The "Prelude" begins with a short "Lento" which melts away into a lyrical and impassioned "Andante", ending with an extended cadenza.

The "Fugue" certainly reminds me of the Bach "E Minor 'Cathedral Fugue'", and I think you will immediately see why.

The counterpoint is excellent, and the subject is thoroughly worked out, including several appearances in inversion.

The build up is an impressive one, and the conclusion is quite monumental in its impact.

The score is attached below, as well as portraits of Walmisley, a photo of John E. West, and two photos of the chapel at St. John's College, Cambridge.