Composer

:

William Mathias

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1978

First Performance

:

Sep 1978

Average_duration

:

12:34

Fantasy for organ, Op. 78 is a composition by Welsh composer William Mathias. It was composed in 1977 and premiered on 22nd October of the same year at St. David's Hall in Cardiff, Wales. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 15 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro, is characterized by its lively and energetic nature. It begins with a fanfare-like motif played on the trumpet stop of the organ, which is then developed and expanded upon throughout the movement. The use of syncopated rhythms and shifting meters adds to the sense of excitement and unpredictability in the music. The second movement, marked Andante, is a stark contrast to the first. It is a slow and contemplative piece, featuring a haunting melody played on the flute stop of the organ. The harmonies are rich and complex, creating a sense of depth and introspection. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet and peaceful conclusion. The final movement, marked Allegro con fuoco, is a return to the energy and excitement of the first. It begins with a driving rhythm in the pedals, which is then taken up by the manuals. The music is characterized by its use of ostinato patterns and repeated motifs, creating a sense of momentum and urgency. The movement builds to a thrilling conclusion, with the full power of the organ on display. Overall, Fantasy for organ, Op. 78 is a virtuosic and challenging work for the organist. It showcases the full range of the instrument's capabilities, from the delicate and introspective to the powerful and majestic. The piece is a testament to Mathias's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the organ as an instrument.

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