Composer

:

Herbert Sumsion

Genre

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

:

8:09

Herbert Sumsion's 'Variations on a Folk Tune' is a composition for organ that was composed in 1932. The piece was premiered on May 17, 1932, at Gloucester Cathedral, where Sumsion served as the organist and choirmaster. The composition consists of six movements, each of which is based on a traditional English folk tune. The first movement is a simple statement of the folk tune, which is played in the right hand of the organ. The left hand provides a gentle accompaniment, and the movement ends with a soft chord. The second movement is a lively scherzo that features a playful variation of the folk tune. The melody is passed between the hands of the organ, and the movement ends with a flourish. The third movement is a slow and contemplative adagio that features a beautiful harmonization of the folk tune. The melody is played in the pedals of the organ, while the hands provide a rich and expressive accompaniment. The fourth movement is a lively and rhythmic dance that features a syncopated variation of the folk tune. The melody is played in the right hand of the organ, while the left hand provides a driving accompaniment. The fifth movement is a gentle and lyrical variation of the folk tune. The melody is played in the right hand of the organ, while the left hand provides a delicate and flowing accompaniment. The final movement is a grand and majestic variation of the folk tune. The melody is played in the pedals of the organ, while the hands provide a powerful and triumphant accompaniment. The movement ends with a resounding chord that brings the composition to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, 'Variations on a Folk Tune' is a beautiful and expressive composition that showcases Sumsion's skill as an organist and composer. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and rhythmic vitality, and it remains a popular work in the organ repertoire to this day.

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