Aria

David Coram improvised a set of nine movements on the organ in Romsey Abbey as 2006 turned into 2007 over midnight of the 31st December. He entitled the set ‘Requiem’ perhaps as a nod to the old year passing. There is a special atmosphere in the Abbey at this time of night and time of year which was enhanced by bell ringing taking place in the belfry above. Distant calls can be heard given by the Tower Captain on the recording.

In 2007, a CD recording of ‘Requiem’ had been given to Robert Fielding by David and this is the source from which this fifth movement has been transcribed to score in memory of David. David had written down no titles for the movements and the title ‘Aria’ has been chosen by Robert.

At the time the improvisations were recorded, David Coram was Assistant Organist at Romsey Abbey and Robert Fielding was Organist & Master of the Choristers. David’s immense skills as an organist are known nationwide and his great talents will be sorely missed.