Composer

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William Thomas Best

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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8:57

Concert Fantasia on Old English Airs is a composition by William Thomas Best, a British organist and composer. The piece was composed in 1861 and premiered on May 6, 1862, at the Crystal Palace in London. It is a work for organ and orchestra, and it consists of three movements. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, is based on the tune "The British Grenadiers." It begins with a fanfare-like introduction played by the orchestra, followed by the organ playing the tune in a grand and majestic manner. The orchestra then takes over, playing variations on the tune, while the organ provides a steady accompaniment. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme. The second movement, marked Andante con moto, is based on the tune "The Lass of Richmond Hill." It begins with a gentle and lyrical melody played by the orchestra, which is then taken up by the organ. The movement is characterized by its delicate and graceful melodies, which are played by both the orchestra and the organ. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful coda. The third movement, marked Allegro vivace, is based on the tune "Rule Britannia." It begins with a lively and energetic introduction played by the orchestra, which is then taken up by the organ. The movement is characterized by its fast and virtuosic passages, which are played by both the orchestra and the organ. The movement ends with a rousing restatement of the main theme, which is played by both the orchestra and the organ. Overall, Concert Fantasia on Old English Airs is a grand and majestic work that showcases the capabilities of both the organ and the orchestra. It is characterized by its use of traditional English tunes, which are given new life through Best's inventive and imaginative arrangements. The piece is a testament to Best's skill as a composer and his love for English music.

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