Grand March in D

Fredercik William Boyton Smith (13 October 1837 — 17 February 1911) was a pupil of S.S. Wesley, and organist in Weymouth and then Dorchester. He composed piano music, songs, and church music, and a number of organ pieces.

"Grand March in D" is found in "Organ Pieces for Church Use," published by Novello in 1880.

There is an extended biography of Boyton Smith to be found here: https://dorset-ancestors.com/?p=967 It makes for interesting reading, but shows that he had a lot sadness and tragedy in his life.

In that article, he refers to the "Grand March in D" saying: it "is still played occasionally as the recessional at church weddings, though its composer’s name has long since become disassociated with it."

The title "Grand March" is absolutely accurate in this case! This work is completely new, but I have never played or heard ANY march that delivers the goods with as much appeal and impact as this one does!

It is marked "Allegro maestoso," but the indication is a bit "off," as the MM of 138 (which I believe IS correct) is much faster, and will really keep you moving!

The first section introduces the march with a quick crescendo and a dramatic pause. The march itself features repeated triplet trumpet calls and rolling pedal scales. The glorious mood is maintained throughout the section, which leads directly into the second section, which I suppose is the trio section of the work.

The theme here has melodic appeal mixed in with a little swagger. It has to stay in tempo, although you'll probably need to bend a bit for the long chromatic scales.

The bridge takes us right back to the opening material, which leads into the thunderously triumphant coda and conclusion.

It's NOT an easy piece! The tempo is very quick, as there are a lot of modulations and registration changes, but I think it's worth the effort.

I guarantee that this will NOT disappoint in ANY way!

The score is attached below, as well as photo of Boyton Smith, and one of his signature.