Caprice in B

Bernard Johnson (1868-1935) was an English organist and composer. He was well known in his day for his recitals at the Albert Hall in Nottingham where he was the City Organist.

The Caprice in B was composed and dedicated “To my friend Alfred Hollins”. Johnson quotes from the poet Spenser, “At the Kerke, when it is holiday.”   The fun and jollity of the fair is heard in the first section with subtle use of staccato and legato, reminiscent of A Song of Sunshine by Alfred Hollins.  In the central section, a hymn is played in the church, but between each of the stanzas the merry making continues to be heard outside. A return to the first section is followed by a brief coda.

The music was republished by Stainer & Bell in 1986.