Offertoire, Op. 5, No. 2

Edward Shippen Barnes (September 14, 1887 in Seabright, New Jersey – February 14, 1958, in Idyllwild, California) was an American organist. He was a graduate of Yale University where he studied with Horatio Parker and Harry Jepson. After graduating from Yale, Barnes continued his studies in Paris with Louis Vierne,Vincent D'Indy, and Abel Decaux. He worked as organist at the Church of the Incarnation, New York (1911–1912), Rutgers Presbyterian Church, New York (1913–1924), St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Philadelphia (1924–1938), and the First Presbyterian Church, Santa Monica (1938–1958).

Although he is largely forgotten as a composer, Barnes was quite successful, composing several signifcant organ symphonies, suites, and shorter works. He is most remembered for his harmonization of the Christmas carol, "Angels, we have heard on high," appearing in most American hymnals.

"Deux-pièces, Op. 5" were published by Durand in 1914 and dedicated: "À mon maître et ami M.A. Decaux" (possibly Monsieur Abel Decaux, 1869–1943).

"Offertoire," the second of the two pieces is a flowing, rhapsodic movement in the radiant key of E major. It has the kind of "atmosphere" that would make it ideal for a fairly lengthy offertory in a traditional Roman Catholic Mass.

The score is attached below, as well as a photo of Edwin Shippen Barnes.

SPECIAL THANKS to my collaboration partner, Erzaher!

He suggested these pieces, and, as always was a pleasure to work with. :-)

THANK YOU, Andrew!