Sonata

Charles Grey (1849-1923) was born in Norfolk, England. His father was also an organist.

He taught at the London College of Music, and published quite a number of compositions, most of which, not all, are of a light nature.

In my previous upload, "Meditation in a Village Churchyard" by Pearce, I mentioned that I saw the piece in a concert program that our member, "Erzahler" attended last week. The same is the case for Grey's "Sonata," which is uploaded complete.

The "Sonata" was published by Schott, circa 1900. It is in three, compact movements.

The first movement, "Introduction" is a stormy recitative, featuring massive chords, 32nd note runs, and a pedal cadenza.

The second movement, "Pastorale" reminded me somewhat of Guilmant, and features dialogues between the Swell Hautboy, the Great Hohlflute, and the Solo Concert Flute.

The third movement, "Finale," switches to the tonic major, and is a delightful and grand showcase for the big, townhall concert sound of the composer's day!

I really tried to get as much of the Hill as I could, and in saying that, I don't mean just noise, although it's plenty grand.

In case you find yourself dozing off, don't miss the "surprise" shortly before the end! It happens when...

Well, you'll have to wait and find out! ;-)

Where else can you find a crowd-pleasing entire sonata in under 12 minutes?!?

Timings of the individual movements are:

Introduction 0:00
Pastorale 1:52
Finale 6:01

The score is attached below, as well as a photo Charles John Grey, and THANKS to our member "bayless" for finding it! :-)