Meditation in A Minor (on an old French Noël)

Edouard (Edward) d'Evry, F.R.C.O., F.T.C.L. was Assistant organist of the Brompton Oratory, London from 1893-99, and Organist there from 1899-1935,

He preceded Ralph Downes as Organist of the Brompton Oratory and wrote a number of pieces for organ in varying styles over a period of more than 50 years. He was also Controller of Examinations for the Trinity College of Music in London.

"Meditation in A Minor" was published by the Vincent Music Co. Ltd. in 1907. It is found in Volume 41 of "The Organ Loft" series, where it appears as "No. 124." It is dedicated: "To the Revd. Father Wilfrid Burham, of the London Oratory."

It is based upon the Noël "Une vierge féconde" (a fertile virgin), but I would not call this a "Christmas piece." Rather, it just takes the expressive melody for the theme.

The piece, though written by an Englishman, has French overtones in the way it is composed, the harmonies, and the organ colors used.

The Swell Oboe is important here, as well as the pungent Clarinet and Vox Humana of the Solo, and the haunting Hohlflote of the Great.

It's a sweet little piece that will take some finesse in order to really bring it off successfully. Also, you will need to play around with your registrations in order to make them successful.

Here, as promised/threatened is the "comparative version" on the Peterborough Hill, showing the more "rustic" sounds of the reeds, and making use of the enclosed Choir.

The score is attached below, as well as photos of Edward d'Evry, and several photos of Brompton Oratory, where he spent 42 years of service.