Gaudeamus (All Saints Day)

"Gaudeamus," the third of "Four Improvisations on Gregorian Themes" by American organist and composer, Everett Titcomb (1884-1968), is a dark and mystical "improvisation" based on the Introit (Gaudeamus - "Let us rejoice, celebrating a Holy Day in honor of All Hallows") for the Mass on All Saints Day. The work is dedicated to H. William Hawke, Esq.

We haven't heard much from the Dortmund Sauer lately, and I hoped this would sound nice on it. I had to approach it in a slighty "less Anglican way," but I think it REALLY did, and I hope you all like it!

These pieces were published in 1958 by The B. F. Wood Music Company in Boston, and may be still available.

Titcomb is one of those composers who wrote LOTS of pieces, and many of them, while usually showing his harmonic touches, often seem rather "workman-like," and somewhat uninspired.

This work for All Saints, and the one on "Puer natus est" for Christmas, seem to rise well beyond his usual level, and are full- blown, late romantic gems.

I don't why I never noticed it, but this piece sounds a little "like Messiaen" in quite a few places... ;-)