Composer

:

Herbert Sumsion

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1932

Average_duration

:

7:57

Introduction and Theme Ostinato is a composition for organ, composed by Herbert Sumsion. It was composed in 1946 and premiered on 17th October 1946 at Gloucester Cathedral, where Sumsion was the organist. The piece consists of three movements, with the first movement being the Introduction, followed by the Theme and Ostinato, and concluding with the Finale. The Introduction is a slow and solemn movement, with a sustained pedal note providing a foundation for the harmonies above. The theme is then introduced in the right hand, played on a solo stop, and is accompanied by a simple chordal accompaniment in the left hand. The theme is then repeated in the left hand, while the right hand plays a counter-melody. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, with the pedal note gradually fading away. The second movement, Theme and Ostinato, is the centerpiece of the composition. The theme is a simple melody, played on a solo stop, and is accompanied by an ostinato in the left hand. The ostinato is a repeated pattern of four notes, which is played throughout the movement. The theme is then developed and varied, with the ostinato providing a constant rhythmic pulse. The movement builds to a climax, with the theme and ostinato played in octaves, before gradually subsiding to a quiet conclusion. The Finale is a lively and energetic movement, with a fast tempo and a rhythmic drive. The movement is based on a fugue subject, which is introduced in the pedals. The subject is then taken up by the manuals, with the left hand playing a counter-subject. The fugue develops, with the subject and counter-subject being passed between the different voices of the organ. The movement builds to a triumphant conclusion, with the subject and counter-subject played in octaves, before ending with a final flourish. Overall, Introduction and Theme Ostinato is a well-crafted and effective composition for organ. The use of simple melodies and ostinatos, combined with the skillful use of harmonies and counterpoint, creates a work that is both accessible and musically satisfying. The composition is a testament to Sumsion's skill as a composer and organist, and remains a popular work in the organ repertoire.

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