Romance in E

Bertram Luard-Selby (12 February 1853 – 26 December 1918) was an English composer and cathedral organist. As an organist, he served in Salisbury Cathedral and Rochester Cathedral. As a composer, he wrote prolifically for the church, the concert-hall and the theater.

Luard-Selby was born at Ightham Mote, Kent. He studied the organ at the Leipzig Conservatoire, and was organist at, successively, St. Barnabas, Marylebone, and Highgate School (1876); Salisbury Cathedral (1881); St. John's, Torquay, 1884; and St. Barnabas, Pimlico, 1887. He was appointed organist of Rochester Cathedral on the death of the incumbent, John Hopkins, in 1900, and held the post until 1916. He was the musical editor of Hymns Ancient and Modern, published in 1904.

A diverse composer, his church music includes two settings of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, 16 anthems, and a number of pieces for the organ.

"Romance in E" was published by Augener Ltd. in 1927. I'm not sure if this is the "first publication," but if so, it is posthumous.

The Germanic influence is strong here. I couldn't help but think of the works of Schumann, or even Brahms.

The harmonic and melodic writing is rich and strong, and I've tried to match these elements with appropriately colorful registrations. The effect is intense, but still very pleasing, and not at all depressing.

I suspect this is a rare piece, so, if it is of interest, be sure to download the score, courtesy of Dr. John Henderson, which is attached below.

Also attached is a photo of Bertram Luard-Selby, and several of Rochester Cathedral, the last position that the composer held.