Joy Cometh in the Morning (Prelude for Organ)

William Arthur Goldsworthy (1878-1966) was born in England and moved to the USA in 1887.

He was a pupil of well-known Canadian/American organist, Samuel P. Warren, and served atseveral New York City churches. In addition, he played at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

The name of W. A. Goldsworthy is known to me, not through is music, but due to the fact that often "worked out" registrations for Hammon organs, which were often included in American publications.

I think one thing that I've come to realize that I have a gift for, is playing not only long-forgotten works, but also in bringing to life those pieces which seem "strange" or even "pointless." This piece is not pointless, but it does have a uniquely odd way of "painting the picture" of the text upon which the work is based.

"Joy cometh in the morning" was published by H. T. Fitzsimmons Co. Inc. in 1961. It is based upon verse 5 of Psalm 30, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning". The passage is a beloved promise that symbolizes hope, restoration, and the temporary nature of sorrow. It suggests that painful times are limited, while divine favor and joy are lasting, bringing new hope with the dawn.

I'd call the piece odd but very clever, as you can hear the clouded fear during the night, the pacing and wringing of hands, the sun rise, the light-hearted skipping, which occasionally "stutters" as doubt re-enters, but all ends well in a joyous and even triumphal culmination.

You'll need to listen and see if you discern the parts of the drama, and see if you agree with my interpretation.

I've got a few other works by Goldsworthy, so maybe I'll try those as well.

I have no photos of W. A. Goldsworthy, but I did attach one of his teacher, Samuel P. Warren.

In addition I attached several photos of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in NYC, as well as some of the big 4-manual Möller it once housed.

This instrument is installed in Montclair State College, Montclair, New Jersey.