Composer

:

Leo Sowerby

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1926

Average_duration

:

20:26

"Mediaeval Poem" is a composition for organ by American composer Leo Sowerby. It was composed in 1920 and premiered on May 23, 1921, at St. James Episcopal Church in Chicago, where Sowerby was the organist and choirmaster. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement, marked "Moderato," is characterized by a solemn and contemplative mood. It begins with a simple melody played on the organ's flute stop, which is then developed and expanded upon throughout the movement. The harmonies are rich and complex, with frequent use of chromaticism and dissonance. The movement ends quietly, with a return to the opening melody. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is much more lively and energetic than the first. It features a fast and intricate melody played on the organ's reed stops, accompanied by a driving rhythm in the pedals. The harmonies are more diatonic than in the first movement, but still contain moments of dissonance and tension. The movement ends with a flourish, with the organist playing a rapid series of arpeggios. The final movement, marked "Andante," is the most introspective and contemplative of the three. It begins with a slow and mournful melody played on the organ's string stops, which is then developed and expanded upon throughout the movement. The harmonies are once again rich and complex, with frequent use of chromaticism and dissonance. The movement ends quietly, with a return to the opening melody. Overall, "Mediaeval Poem" is a highly expressive and emotional work that showcases Sowerby's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the capabilities of the organ. Its use of complex harmonies and intricate melodies make it a challenging piece for organists to perform, but its beauty and depth make it a beloved work in the organ repertoire.

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