Autumn Song (for the first day of Autumn)

Today, September 22nd, is the first day of autumn. In my time zone it arrives at 2:19 PM.

For years I've tried to do a piece honoring the change of seasons but I've pretty much "done them all" with none left. And then...

I saw this lovely thing on IMSLP nicely done in a clear reprint done by Quentin Flore in 2024, so, here it is!

William Faulkes (1863-1933), composer,
organist, pianist, arranger, recitalist, teacher, chamber musician, conductor, musical organizer. Remarkably, for a composer so fluent and prolific, Faulkes was consistently omitted from the major dictionaries of music. From time to time, he is found in smaller more specific dictionaries at times, and is sometimes described as a leader of the modern English school of organ playing; or a leading composer of the English romantic school of organ playing.

Born in Liverpool, at the age of 10 became a chorister at St. Margaret's Church, Anfield, which had the largest organ in Liverpool. At the age of 18, he was appointed organist of St. John's, Tue Brook, and five years later returned to St. Margaret's. He had a fine all-male choir, and the level of musical excellence at the church was significant. As an organist, he was a brilliant performer, and earned the admiration of the leading British organist of the time, W. T. Best.

Anyone who is a fan of the music of Faulkes will immediately recognize his style and fingerprints! The rich, endlessly flowing melody is, as in many such movements by Faulkes, conceived of as a "violin solo," although hear it is played upon the Swell Hautbois.

In order to gain a bit more variety and color, I've done the second section upon the Solo Flute Harmonique, before returning to the Hautbois for the reprise of the main theme.

I've really tried to make this "sing like a violin," so, my listeners can be the judge. :-)

The score is attached below, as well as two photos of William Faulkes and one of St. Margaret's Church, Anfield, where he served as organist.

Peace to All!