Festal Prelude in G Minor

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.

"Festal Prelude in G Minor" was published by Carl Fischer, Inc. in 1956. I'm wondering if it was composed earlier than this, but, perhaps not, considering the harmonic usage and structure of the piece. It is dedicated: "To Donald L. Coats". Coats held a number of prestigious positions, culminating as organist of St. James' Church on Madison Avenue in New York City.

This work is really more "solemn" than it is "festal," at least to my way of looking at it. It is an imposing work, that reminded me of some movements by Widor in his two "architectural symphonies," the Gothic and the Romanesque.

The harmonies and chromaticisms are richly complicated, and sorting them all out is technically quite involved. It shows that Barnes really had skills as a composer, although he is very rarely heard today. I've never heard any performances of this.

I hope to do some more of his music soon.

This score is still under copyright, but if you are interested in a copy, please contact me directly.

A photo of Edwin Shippen Barnes and several of St. Stephen's Church in Philadelphia are attached below.