Full Version: Royal Wedding music
So what's it going to be, then? I can't believe nobody has started a thread on this yet! Anybody willing to stick their neck out with hymn predictions?
When I was a boy Treble (back in the old days), we might have three weddings a week all with the same plan:
In: Wagner
Hymns: Lead us heavenly father, lead us.
Love Divine (tune: Love Divine)
Praise My Soul The King of Heaven
Signing of the Register: Lead me Lord (S.S.Wesley)
Out: Mendelssohn
I hope none of these items have an outing at the Royal Wedding.
In: Wagner
Hymns: Lead us heavenly father, lead us.
Love Divine (tune: Love Divine)
Praise My Soul The King of Heaven
Signing of the Register: Lead me Lord (S.S.Wesley)
Out: Mendelssohn
I hope none of these items have an outing at the Royal Wedding.
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 27 2011, 06:14 AM) 
When I was a boy Treble (back in the old days), we might have three weddings a week all with the same plan:
In: Wagner
Hymns: Lead us heavenly father, lead us.
Love Divine (tune: Love Divine)
Praise My Soul The King of Heaven
Signing of the Register: Lead me Lord (S.S.Wesley)
Out: Mendelssohn
I hope none of these items have an outing at the Royal Wedding.
I think Praise my Soul is almost guaranteed.
Love Divine must also be a favourite, but I just hope they keep to Wesley's original words, and don't replace them with one of the cheesy alternatives that I have heard in recent years.
I also wonder whether Parry's wonderful I was Glad will get an outing?
I did read somewhere that several new pieces were being commissioned for the wedding. I wonder who might have written them?
SB
PS: I seem to rememeber we were paid 2/6d for a wedding when I was a lad.
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 27 2011, 12:28 AM)
I can't believe nobody has started a thread on this yet!
Probably because you'd only end up with drivel like this: http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/...story?track=rssQUOTE(Swell Box @ Apr 27 2011, 09:17 AM)
I did read somewhere that several new pieces were being commissioned for the wedding. I wonder who might have written them?
Not Max, apparently! http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/roy...overlooked.html
QUOTE(Vox Humana @ Apr 27 2011, 10:39 AM)
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 27 2011, 12:28 AM)
I can't believe nobody has started a thread on this yet!
Probably because you'd only end up with drivel like this: http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/...story?track=rssFunny to read the Widor being described as a "new cliche" -- I think I have been playing it at weddings for 25 years.
I wonder if they will plump for "I vow to thee my country".. I think Diana had it at her wedding, and it was definitely sung at her funeral. Might be a bit of a tear-jerker.
I am hoping for a Walton march - Crown Imperial can't be bettered!
That was an interesting find.
I was curious to see that both Jerusalem and I Vow to Thee my Country were mentioned, as both have been banned by some incumbents at weddings in recent years for being 'inappropriate' and not 'politically correct'.
SB
I was curious to see that both Jerusalem and I Vow to Thee my Country were mentioned, as both have been banned by some incumbents at weddings in recent years for being 'inappropriate' and not 'politically correct'.
SB
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 27 2011, 06:14 AM)
When I was a boy Treble (back in the old days), we might have three weddings a week all with the same plan:
In: Wagner
Hymns: Lead us heavenly father, lead us.
Love Divine (tune: Love Divine)
Praise My Soul The King of Heaven
Signing of the Register: Lead me Lord (S.S.Wesley)
Out: Mendelssohn
I hope none of these items have an outing at the Royal Wedding.
I have noticed in one or two dramas where the plot features a wedding, that the bride + dad walk in to the Mendelssohn. (Mainly utter tosh like Midsomer Murders so what can you expect?)
I do an awful lot of weddings and have never played anyone in to this. Just wondered if anyone else has.
Very much doubt that anything by Shania Twain will feature in the coming nuptials; perhaps after watching the Royal match, those on my list who have chosen 'From This Moment' (or something like that) will realise how tacky it is and change their minds. I hope so because it is a task I'm dreading, most especially, which bit to play for the 20s it takes to walk up the aisle.
Have to work on the big day so will not see the live broadcast.
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 27 2011, 03:27 PM)
Very much doubt that anything by Shania Twain will feature in the coming nuptials
Oh, why isn't there a pouting smiley? Shania Twain songs at the royal wedding would have been hilarious.I don't have any ideas as to what music they might have, but please say they haven't chosen Give me Oil in my Lamp or All Things Bright and Beautiful, otherwise I might just cry.
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 27 2011, 03:27 PM)
Have to work on the big day so will not see the live broadcast.
You never know, they might show the odd clip on some obscure news channel in the evening.... 
QUOTE(viola-mad @ Apr 27 2011, 04:06 PM)
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 27 2011, 03:27 PM)
Very much doubt that anything by Shania Twain will feature in the coming nuptials
Oh, why isn't there a pouting smiley? Shania Twain songs at the royal wedding would have been hilarious.I don't have any ideas as to what music they might have, but please say they haven't chosen Give me Oil in my Lamp or All Things Bright and Beautiful, otherwise I might just cry.
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 27 2011, 03:27 PM)
Have to work on the big day so will not see the live broadcast.
You never know, they might show the odd clip on some obscure news channel in the evening.... Well, the musical choices that I remember from the royal weddings in my lifetime haven't caught on with the general public.
Princess Anne left the Abbey to the Radetsky March at her first wedding - which caused a lot of comment at the time. Sarah Ferguson walked up the aisle to Elgar's Imperial March which is a fab piece but I haven't heard it at a wedding since. Admittedly there aren't many people who can muster the forces for Let the bright seraphim, so we can probably put that to one side; but I haven't heard of anyone else asking for the opening chorus of "The Apostles" at their wedding since Edward and Sophie did. Not really surprised, I think it's more suitable for an ordination or a confirmation, but still, it's a nice piece.
Think I'll go and see how many colour supplements I have tucked away in the old toybox and refresh my memory!
QUOTE(viola-mad @ Apr 27 2011, 04:06 PM)
I don't have any ideas as to what music they might have, but please say they haven't chosen Give me Oil in my Lamp or All Things Bright and Beautiful, otherwise I might just cry.
I feel fairly sure the first of these will have been ruled out of court (as it were) on account of the double entendre.
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 27 2011, 03:27 PM)
I have noticed in one or two dramas where the plot features a wedding, that the bride + dad walk in to the Mendelssohn. (Mainly utter tosh like Midsomer Murders so what can you expect?)
I do an awful lot of weddings and have never played anyone in to this. Just wondered if anyone else has.
I've attended a wedding that started with the Mendelssohn being massacred by the organist. It may have been a bad organ (the church was tiny, odd and not in great repair) but he went on the mangle the hymns and the recessional.
Mendelssohn's real Wedding March is the first twenty-four bars of Organ Sonata No.3, which he wrote for his sister's wedding in 1829.
It makes a glorious bridal procession and works well, even on a small organ. It is not at all difficult to play.
Barry Williams
It makes a glorious bridal procession and works well, even on a small organ. It is not at all difficult to play.
Barry Williams
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 27 2011, 11:03 AM)
I am hoping for a Walton march - Crown Imperial can't be bettered!
A grand piece for a royal wedding.
I'm expecting loud trumpets to play alongside the organ during the processional/recessional. It wouldn't surprise me if they were having something like the Gigout Grand Choeur Dialogue for the exit.
Well, I got the Crown Imperial bit right - shame about Love Divine... !
Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton are pleased to announce the music for their Wedding Service. The music has a largely British theme. The Couple have put considerable thought into selecting the music, and their choices blend traditional music with some newly commissioned pieces.
Before the Service
The music before the Service will begin with a selection of organ pieces: Fantasia in G (Pi?ce d?orgue ? 5) by Johann Sebastian Bach, followed by Veni Creator Spiritus by the Master of The Queen?s Music, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies; Prelude on St. Columba Op. 28 by Sir Charles Villiers Stanford and Sonata for Organ Op. 28 (Allegro maestoso and Allegretto) by Edward Elgar.
Following this will be seven orchestral pieces:
Serenade for Strings in E minor Op. 20 (Allegro piacevole, Larghetto and Allegretto) by Edward Elgar
Courtly Dance V: Galliard from Gloriana (Symphonic Suite) Op. 53a no. 7 by Benjamin Britten
Fantasia on Greensleeves by Ralph Vaughan Williams
Farewell to Stromness by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies
On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring by Frederick Delius
Touch Her Soft Lips and Part from Henry V Suite by William Walton
Romance for String Orchestra Op. 11 by Gerald Finzi
Three of these pieces ? Farewell to Stromness, Touch Her Soft Lips and Part and Romance for String Orchestra Op. 11 ? were played at the Service of Prayer and Dedication for The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall in 2005. The Couple specifically chose these pieces for that reason. The final piece of music before the Service begins continues the broadly British theme: Canzona from Organ Sonata in C minor by Percy Whitlock.
Processional Music
The Service will begin with a Fanfare by The State Trumpeters of the Household Cavalry to mark the arrival of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. The Fanfare will be followed by three Processionals. For the Procession of The Queen, Prince William and Miss Middleton have chosen March from The Birds by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry. Prelude on Rhosymedre by Ralph Vaughan Williams will accompany the Procession of the Clergy, and was chosen for its Welsh echoes. The Couple have selected ?I was Glad?, also by Parry, for the Procession of the Bride.
Hymns
Prince William and Miss Middleton have chosen three hymns for the Service: ?Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer?, words by William Williams, translated by Peter Williams and others, and music by John Hughes. The second will be ?Love Divine All Love Excelling?, words by Charles Wesley and music by William Penfro Rowlands. The third will be ?Jerusalem?, by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry, words by William Blake. All three hymns have been chosen because they are favourites of the Couple.
The Anthem and Motet
The Anthem, ?This is the day which the Lord hath made?, has been composed specially for the occasion by John Rutter. It was commissioned by Westminster Abbey as a wedding present for Prince William and Miss Middleton and will be performed by both the Choir of Westminster Abbey and the Chapel Royal Choir. Mr. Rutter is a British composer, conductor, editor and arranger who specialises in choral music.
The Anthem will be followed by the Motet ?Ubi caritas? by Paul Mealor, a Welsh composer, who is currently Reader in Composition at The University of Aberdeen.
Mr. Mealor?s composing studio is on the Isle of Anglesey, where Prince William and Miss Middleton live. This version of ?Ubi caritas? was written on Anglesey and premiered at the University of St. Andrews in November 2010.
The National Anthem will be sung immediately before the Signing of the Registers.
The Signing of the Registers and the Recessional
During the Signing of the Registers, the choirs will sing ?Blest pair of Sirens?, words by John Milton from At a Solemn Musick, music by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry.
Following the Signing, there will be a Fanfare by the Fanfare Team from the Central Band of the Royal Air Force. The Fanfare, called Valiant and Brave, after the motto of No. 22 Squadron (Search and Rescue Force) was specially composed for this Service by Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs, Principal Director of Music in the Royal Air Force.
The Recessional, for the Procession of the Bride and Bridegroom, will be Crown Imperial by William Walton. Toccata from Symphonie V by Charles-Marie Widor and Pomp and Circumstance March no. 5 by Edward Elgar will follow the Service
QUOTE
Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton are pleased to announce the music for their Wedding Service. The music has a largely British theme. The Couple have put considerable thought into selecting the music, and their choices blend traditional music with some newly commissioned pieces.
Before the Service
The music before the Service will begin with a selection of organ pieces: Fantasia in G (Pi?ce d?orgue ? 5) by Johann Sebastian Bach, followed by Veni Creator Spiritus by the Master of The Queen?s Music, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies; Prelude on St. Columba Op. 28 by Sir Charles Villiers Stanford and Sonata for Organ Op. 28 (Allegro maestoso and Allegretto) by Edward Elgar.
Following this will be seven orchestral pieces:
Serenade for Strings in E minor Op. 20 (Allegro piacevole, Larghetto and Allegretto) by Edward Elgar
Courtly Dance V: Galliard from Gloriana (Symphonic Suite) Op. 53a no. 7 by Benjamin Britten
Fantasia on Greensleeves by Ralph Vaughan Williams
Farewell to Stromness by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies
On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring by Frederick Delius
Touch Her Soft Lips and Part from Henry V Suite by William Walton
Romance for String Orchestra Op. 11 by Gerald Finzi
Three of these pieces ? Farewell to Stromness, Touch Her Soft Lips and Part and Romance for String Orchestra Op. 11 ? were played at the Service of Prayer and Dedication for The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall in 2005. The Couple specifically chose these pieces for that reason. The final piece of music before the Service begins continues the broadly British theme: Canzona from Organ Sonata in C minor by Percy Whitlock.
Processional Music
The Service will begin with a Fanfare by The State Trumpeters of the Household Cavalry to mark the arrival of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. The Fanfare will be followed by three Processionals. For the Procession of The Queen, Prince William and Miss Middleton have chosen March from The Birds by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry. Prelude on Rhosymedre by Ralph Vaughan Williams will accompany the Procession of the Clergy, and was chosen for its Welsh echoes. The Couple have selected ?I was Glad?, also by Parry, for the Procession of the Bride.
Hymns
Prince William and Miss Middleton have chosen three hymns for the Service: ?Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer?, words by William Williams, translated by Peter Williams and others, and music by John Hughes. The second will be ?Love Divine All Love Excelling?, words by Charles Wesley and music by William Penfro Rowlands. The third will be ?Jerusalem?, by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry, words by William Blake. All three hymns have been chosen because they are favourites of the Couple.
The Anthem and Motet
The Anthem, ?This is the day which the Lord hath made?, has been composed specially for the occasion by John Rutter. It was commissioned by Westminster Abbey as a wedding present for Prince William and Miss Middleton and will be performed by both the Choir of Westminster Abbey and the Chapel Royal Choir. Mr. Rutter is a British composer, conductor, editor and arranger who specialises in choral music.
The Anthem will be followed by the Motet ?Ubi caritas? by Paul Mealor, a Welsh composer, who is currently Reader in Composition at The University of Aberdeen.
Mr. Mealor?s composing studio is on the Isle of Anglesey, where Prince William and Miss Middleton live. This version of ?Ubi caritas? was written on Anglesey and premiered at the University of St. Andrews in November 2010.
The National Anthem will be sung immediately before the Signing of the Registers.
The Signing of the Registers and the Recessional
During the Signing of the Registers, the choirs will sing ?Blest pair of Sirens?, words by John Milton from At a Solemn Musick, music by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry.
Following the Signing, there will be a Fanfare by the Fanfare Team from the Central Band of the Royal Air Force. The Fanfare, called Valiant and Brave, after the motto of No. 22 Squadron (Search and Rescue Force) was specially composed for this Service by Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs, Principal Director of Music in the Royal Air Force.
The Recessional, for the Procession of the Bride and Bridegroom, will be Crown Imperial by William Walton. Toccata from Symphonie V by Charles-Marie Widor and Pomp and Circumstance March no. 5 by Edward Elgar will follow the Service
Wow! I must say I'm looking forward to watching the ceremony, and won't be one of the people strategically avoiding it.
We asked for pomp and circumstance No 5 at our wedding to leave the church, but the organist played No 4 instead, causing some comments about our unusual choice of music!
Glad to see that 'Farewell to Stromness' is in there. Is there an organ transcription of that piece, I wonder? Perhaps it doesn't need one - never seen the piano score, so couldn't say.
BTW thanks to Barry for that pointer to Mendelssohn's third Organ Sonata. Must try that over next time I'm at the church.
P4.
I meant to add that I'm glad to see they're havng 'Love Divine' to Blaewern. Mrs P4 and I had that at our wedding x-squared-minus-one years ago, sung in A flat by the choir as members of which we had met. Ahhhh. Bless.
P4
BTW thanks to Barry for that pointer to Mendelssohn's third Organ Sonata. Must try that over next time I'm at the church.
P4.
I meant to add that I'm glad to see they're havng 'Love Divine' to Blaewern. Mrs P4 and I had that at our wedding x-squared-minus-one years ago, sung in A flat by the choir as members of which we had met. Ahhhh. Bless.
P4
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 27 2011, 12:28 AM)
So what's it going to be, then? I can't believe nobody has started a thread on this yet! Anybody willing to stick their neck out with hymn predictions?
I read somewhere, a few weeks ago, that hymns would be Guide me O thou great redeemer, Love Divine, And did those feet.
Well here it is and what a wonderful choice of music:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/roy...ce-in-full.html
I was delighted to see that the couple are having the Series I form of service (i.e. 'Thee' and 'Thou'). The traditional version of The Lord's Prayer is being used, so everyone can join in without having to read from the service book, or sit in silence whilst the clergy read the 'new' version, (as often happens at parish weddings these days.)
The music is quintessentially English with a gorgeous Welsh organ piece (Rhosymedre) and a hint of Irish (Stanford.) The new fanfare and Rutter anthem will both be at least interesting and probably rather fine.
The organ music is almost all quite straightforward (Elgar and Widor excepted) and much of the orchestral music exists already in organ arrangements. (No doubt requests will follow, as night follows day!) It is good to see The Bridal March from 'The Birds of Aristophanes' by Parry getting an airing. Timothy Farrell recorded that spendid piece many years ago. It was neatly arranged for organ by Walter Alcock in 1906 and is published by Novello.
Let us hope the weather holds out.
Barry Williams
PS I am pleased to note the absence of a reading from I Corinthians 13!!!!!!!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/roy...ce-in-full.html
I was delighted to see that the couple are having the Series I form of service (i.e. 'Thee' and 'Thou'). The traditional version of The Lord's Prayer is being used, so everyone can join in without having to read from the service book, or sit in silence whilst the clergy read the 'new' version, (as often happens at parish weddings these days.)
The music is quintessentially English with a gorgeous Welsh organ piece (Rhosymedre) and a hint of Irish (Stanford.) The new fanfare and Rutter anthem will both be at least interesting and probably rather fine.
The organ music is almost all quite straightforward (Elgar and Widor excepted) and much of the orchestral music exists already in organ arrangements. (No doubt requests will follow, as night follows day!) It is good to see The Bridal March from 'The Birds of Aristophanes' by Parry getting an airing. Timothy Farrell recorded that spendid piece many years ago. It was neatly arranged for organ by Walter Alcock in 1906 and is published by Novello.
Let us hope the weather holds out.
Barry Williams
PS I am pleased to note the absence of a reading from I Corinthians 13!!!!!!!
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 27 2011, 11:03 AM)
QUOTE(Vox Humana @ Apr 27 2011, 10:39 AM)
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 27 2011, 12:28 AM)
I can't believe nobody has started a thread on this yet!
Probably because you'd only end up with drivel like this: http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/...story?track=rssFunny to read the Widor being described as a "new cliche" -- I think I have been playing it at weddings for 25 years.
I wonder if they will plump for "I vow to thee my country".. I think Diana had it at her wedding, and it was definitely sung at her funeral. Might be a bit of a tear-jerker.
I am hoping for a Walton march - Crown Imperial can't be bettered!
Wow !Yes! Crown Imperial would top my list as well.
QUOTE(David Cowlishaw @ Apr 28 2011, 12:04 PM)
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 27 2011, 11:03 AM)
QUOTE(Vox Humana @ Apr 27 2011, 10:39 AM)
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 27 2011, 12:28 AM)
I can't believe nobody has started a thread on this yet!
Probably because you'd only end up with drivel like this: http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/...story?track=rssFunny to read the Widor being described as a "new cliche" -- I think I have been playing it at weddings for 25 years.
I wonder if they will plump for "I vow to thee my country".. I think Diana had it at her wedding, and it was definitely sung at her funeral. Might be a bit of a tear-jerker.
I am hoping for a Walton march - Crown Imperial can't be bettered!
Wow !Yes! Crown Imperial would top my list as well.
Crown Imperial is terrific, but I prefer Orb and Sceptre; it just 'does' something for me that Crown Imperial, magnificent as it is, does not.
Walton was never quite satisfied with Orb and Sceptre. I cannot see why. They are both magnificent.
The Herbert Murrill organ arrangment of Crown Imperial is slightly faulty insofar as it fails to reproduce the double semi-quavers at the start and throughout. For some unaccountable reason, Murrill has reduced them to a quaver. The same sort of thing happens throughout his score, in the Pedal line too and, for example, at bar 60 (organ score) where there should be two semi-quaver Gs, rather than just one. These errors are easily remedied by comparison to the orchestral version - even listening to a recording is sufficient to sort out what Murrill has, it seems, got wrong.
Barry Williams
QUOTE(principal4 @ Apr 28 2011, 10:47 AM)
BTW thanks to Barry for that pointer to Mendelssohn's third Organ Sonata. Must try that over next time I'm at the church.
I have played the opening of this Sonata many times for the Bride to enter. As most of the churches have been relatively small. She's there before the fugal bit comes !
I tend to play that when their instructions are 'Anything other than the Wagner !
)
Glad the Crown Imperial march will be given by the orchestra - hopefully with a bit of obbligato organ thrown in at the end for good measure. I remember a fine Proms performance in 1991. Sat close the organ as I was, the effect was overwhelming on the senses.
QUOTE(Barry Williams @ Apr 28 2011, 12:41 PM)
The Herbert Murrill organ arrangment of Crown Imperial is slightly faulty insofar as it fails to reproduce the double semi-quavers at the start and throughout. For some unaccountable reason, Murrill has reduced them to a quaver. The same sort of thing happens throughout his score, in the Pedal line too and, for example, at bar 60 (organ score) where there should be two semi-quaver Gs, rather than just one. These errors are easily remedied by comparison to the orchestral version - even listening to a recording is sufficient to sort out what Murrill has, it seems, got wrong.
My take on this is he felt that the rhythmic snap of the original was so fast and detached that it would nearly impossible to bring it off on an organ unless it had an extremely crisp action. Perhaps he 'ironed it out' on that basis?
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 28 2011, 08:55 AM)
Wow! I must say I'm looking forward to watching the ceremony, and won't be one of the people strategically avoiding it.
With music like this, I'll be watching. Anyone heard the Mealor before?
And I would say just play the piano version on the organ if you want to do Stromness at home. All I do is leave out the repeated accompanying chords in the middle section because they sound too clumpy on our instrument.
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 28 2011, 01:50 PM)
QUOTE(Barry Williams @ Apr 28 2011, 12:41 PM)
The Herbert Murrill organ arrangment of Crown Imperial is slightly faulty insofar as it fails to reproduce the double semi-quavers at the start and throughout. For some unaccountable reason, Murrill has reduced them to a quaver. The same sort of thing happens throughout his score, in the Pedal line too and, for example, at bar 60 (organ score) where there should be two semi-quaver Gs, rather than just one. These errors are easily remedied by comparison to the orchestral version - even listening to a recording is sufficient to sort out what Murrill has, it seems, got wrong.
My take on this is he felt that the rhythmic snap of the original was so fast and detached that it would nearly impossible to bring it off on an organ unless it had an extremely crisp action. Perhaps he 'ironed it out' on that basis?I'm sure that must be it. Nevertheless it was an error of judgement as the "snaps" are such an essential feature of the piece. If the organ can't cope with them the piece is not for that organ. I can understand him ironing out the pedal part, but the manual snaps really do need restoring.
QUOTE(Vox Humana @ Apr 28 2011, 03:22 PM)
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 28 2011, 01:50 PM)
QUOTE(Barry Williams @ Apr 28 2011, 12:41 PM)
The Herbert Murrill organ arrangment of Crown Imperial is slightly faulty insofar as it fails to reproduce the double semi-quavers at the start and throughout. For some unaccountable reason, Murrill has reduced them to a quaver. The same sort of thing happens throughout his score, in the Pedal line too and, for example, at bar 60 (organ score) where there should be two semi-quaver Gs, rather than just one. These errors are easily remedied by comparison to the orchestral version - even listening to a recording is sufficient to sort out what Murrill has, it seems, got wrong.
My take on this is he felt that the rhythmic snap of the original was so fast and detached that it would nearly impossible to bring it off on an organ unless it had an extremely crisp action. Perhaps he 'ironed it out' on that basis?I'm sure that must be it. Nevertheless it was an error of judgement as the "snaps" are such an essential feature of the piece. If the organ can't cope with them the piece is not for that organ. I can understand him ironing out the pedal part, but the manual snaps really do need restoring.
A similar thing happens in almost all the organ arrangments of Mozart's K594, where the 'Third Degree Knocks' are ironed out, at least always in the Pedal line, to quavers, thus destroying the entire Masonic symbolism intended by the composer.
Barry Williams
Slightly surprised by the choice of "I was Glad" and "Blest pair of sirens" - not that I have anything against either piece, but I was Glad is a coronation anthem and - well, I'm just surprised by BpoS!
QUOTE(Dulcet @ Apr 28 2011, 05:23 PM)
Slightly surprised by the choice of "I was Glad" and "Blest pair of sirens" - not that I have anything against either piece, but I was Glad is a coronation anthem and - well, I'm just surprised by BpoS!
"I was glad" is a psalm. This psalm has featured at coronations for centuries, but is not exclusive to them - and nor is Parry's setting. Actually, my wife came down the aisle to that, so the royal couple are following an excellent example!
As ever with these royal services I am impressed with the precision timing, e.g. "At 10.42am Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are received at the Great West Door by the Dean and Chapter." If only that precision would rub off on wedding couples!
QUOTE(Vox Humana @ Apr 28 2011, 05:36 PM)
As ever with these royal services I am impressed with the precision timing, e.g. "At 10.42am Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are received at the Great West Door by the Dean and Chapter." If only that precision would rub off on wedding couples!
It's the timing that makes the difference to the professionalism of things. How long is the aisle - how long does it rake to get from A to B - the dramatic impact of the perfect cadence at just the right moment. The impact of music is underestimated by non-musical people. It shouldn't be a question of 'rub off'. It should be be a question of 'give respect to the guy who knows what he's about'. We need to be less cynical and more 'in control' - whether they want it or not.
Is it just me, or do other people associate Rhosymedre with funerals? It could just be that it was played at the last two funerals I attended.
I'm really looking forward to watching the service tomorrow!
I'm really looking forward to watching the service tomorrow!
QUOTE(BerkshireMum @ Apr 28 2011, 11:32 PM)
Is it just me, or do other people associate Rhosymedre with funerals? It could just be that it was played at the last two funerals I attended.
I'll be interested in the speed it is played at. I once (unwisely) uploaded some video of me playing it to YouTube and the only comments I received were critical ones stating that I played it far too slow. To my ears, it was a perfect tempo so it will be interesting to hear it from the Abbey.
QUOTE(Vox Humana @ Apr 28 2011, 05:36 PM)
QUOTE(Dulcet @ Apr 28 2011, 05:23 PM)
I was Glad is a coronation anthem
"I was glad" is a psalm. This psalm has featured at coronations for centuriesActually I recant. I had it in mind that it featured at the coronation of Charles I, but on looking up his service I see that the choir sung it as an anthem (unfortunately the composer isn't mentioned), so technically you are quite correct. Having said that, I still stand by my original point that, being a psalm, it is entirely appropriate for wider use.
QUOTE(confutatis @ Apr 29 2011, 07:58 AM)
QUOTE(BerkshireMum @ Apr 28 2011, 11:32 PM)
Is it just me, or do other people associate Rhosymedre with funerals? It could just be that it was played at the last two funerals I attended.
I'll be interested in the speed it is played at. I once (unwisely) uploaded some video of me playing it to YouTube and the only comments I received were critical ones stating that I played it far too slow.I wouldn't give a toss about comments from people on YouTube. A lot of them have no idea what they are spouting about and, even amongst those who do, you can never please everyone. Having said that, the piece is marked "Andantino" (i.e. lighter than andante) with a minim beat and it is usually played accordingly. Minim = 52 is IMO a good speed; I wouldn't take it any slower. Actually I take it a little faster myself, but I'm fairly sure I'm taking it too fast.
QUOTE(Barry Williams @ Apr 28 2011, 11:47 AM)
The music is quintessentially English with a gorgeous Welsh organ piece (Rhosymedre) and a hint of Irish (Stanford.) The new fanfare and Rutter anthem will both be at least interesting and probably rather fine.
And I think you'll find that Stromness is in Scotland! (It's in Orkney.)
Didn't think much of the Rutter...
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 01:10 PM)
Didn't think much of the Rutter...
Glad it wasn't just me. I must say I was bored to tears by the Rutter
It just didn't seem to go anywhere.
It was alright for what it was, which I agree isn't much. Since it was very simple and mostly in unison, it looks like Rutter had more of an eye on wider aftersales than on the occasion itself. Perhaps I'm being unfair, but that is how it seemed and it rather reinforced my opinion that deliberately courting immortality is never likely to lead to a composer's best work.
QUOTE(MDSS @ Apr 29 2011, 03:27 PM)
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 01:10 PM)
Didn't think much of the Rutter...
Glad it wasn't just me. I must say I was bored to tears by the Rutter
It just didn't seem to go anywhere.I found it very dull indeed; it sounded almost like someone's second-rate pastiche in the style of Rutter.
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 05:17 PM)
QUOTE(MDSS @ Apr 29 2011, 03:27 PM)
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 01:10 PM)
Didn't think much of the Rutter...
Glad it wasn't just me. I must say I was bored to tears by the Rutter
It just didn't seem to go anywhere.I found it very dull indeed; it sounded almost like someone's second-rate pastiche in the style of Rutter.
It sounded much too much like every other Rutter work that I have heard for my liking.
SB
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 05:17 PM)
QUOTE(MDSS @ Apr 29 2011, 03:27 PM)
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 01:10 PM)
Didn't think much of the Rutter...
Glad it wasn't just me. I must say I was bored to tears by the Rutter
It just didn't seem to go anywhere.I found it very dull indeed; it sounded almost like someone's second-rate pastiche in the style of Rutter.
Well, I liked it!
But then, I find Rutter very easy on the ear, which is not thought a "good thing" these days. I agree that it wasn't in the same league as the big Parry works, but I suspect it's difficult producing one's best work for a commission like the royal wedding.
Oddly, I quite liked the Rutter too; but my opinion may change when I've seen it in print (presumably OUP will be putting it out soon). I anticipate demand for it at next year's weddings.
On a different matter, am I alone in thinking there was an aberrant 'w' in one of the hymns? "Joy of heaven to worth come down..."
P4
On a different matter, am I alone in thinking there was an aberrant 'w' in one of the hymns? "Joy of heaven to worth come down..."
P4
QUOTE(principal4 @ Apr 29 2011, 09:20 PM)
On a different matter, am I alone in thinking there was an aberrant 'w' in one of the hymns? "Joy of heaven to worth come down..."
I didn't notice that, but the singing from the congregation was terribly lacklustre, I thought. Some people weren't singing at all - or at least their mouths weren't moving!
I wonder what goes through the queen's head while everyone's singing the national anthem!
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 08:38 PM)
QUOTE(principal4 @ Apr 29 2011, 09:20 PM)
On a different matter, am I alone in thinking there was an aberrant 'w' in one of the hymns? "Joy of heaven to worth come down..."
I didn't notice that, but the singing from the congregation was terribly lacklustre, I thought. Some people weren't singing at all.
I wonder what goes through the queen's head while everyone's singing the national anthem!
I had the same thought czerny!
QUOTE(Clari Nicki1 @ Apr 29 2011, 10:11 PM)
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 08:38 PM)
QUOTE(principal4 @ Apr 29 2011, 09:20 PM)
On a different matter, am I alone in thinking there was an aberrant 'w' in one of the hymns? "Joy of heaven to worth come down..."
I didn't notice that, but the singing from the congregation was terribly lacklustre, I thought. Some people weren't singing at all.
I wonder what goes through the queen's head while everyone's singing the national anthem!
I had the same thought czerny!
Something along the lines of "oh Philip, are they singing one's song again?"
I would imagine it must be difficult to maintain composure when constantly in the public eye as the royals are.
SB
I read on another forum that a soundtrack of the wedding will be released; hope so because I want one.
I couldn't watch it live, and the highlights left a lot out so this will help me make up my mind whether I agree with the remarks so far.
I have to say that although what I did hear would not have been my first choice, I thought it all worked beautifully and was pitch perfect.
Whoever organized this deserves a gong. (If they haven't already got one.)
Isn't it a pleasure to see crowds looking joyful instead of baying for blood as seems to be happening in so many other parts of the world?
I couldn't watch it live, and the highlights left a lot out so this will help me make up my mind whether I agree with the remarks so far.
I have to say that although what I did hear would not have been my first choice, I thought it all worked beautifully and was pitch perfect.
Whoever organized this deserves a gong. (If they haven't already got one.)
Isn't it a pleasure to see crowds looking joyful instead of baying for blood as seems to be happening in so many other parts of the world?
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 29 2011, 04:09 PM)
I read on another forum that a soundtrack of the wedding will be released; hope so because I want one.
I couldn't watch it live, and the highlights left a lot out so this will help me make up my mind whether I agree with the remarks so far.
I have to say that although what I did hear would not have been my first choice, I thought it all worked beautifully and was pitch perfect.
Whoever organized this deserves a gong. (If they haven't already got one.)
Isn't it a pleasure to see crowds looking joyful instead of baying for blood as seems to be happening in so many other parts of the world?
I didn't watch it - not really a royals person myself.
Over in this part of the world one of our prominent musicians said he thought the music was the best part of it - and also noted how good the intonation was. Maybe I should have a listen at least.
QUOTE(katica @ Apr 29 2011, 11:18 PM)
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 29 2011, 04:09 PM)
I read on another forum that a soundtrack of the wedding will be released; hope so because I want one.
I couldn't watch it live, and the highlights left a lot out so this will help me make up my mind whether I agree with the remarks so far.
I have to say that although what I did hear would not have been my first choice, I thought it all worked beautifully and was pitch perfect.
Whoever organized this deserves a gong. (If they haven't already got one.)
Isn't it a pleasure to see crowds looking joyful instead of baying for blood as seems to be happening in so many other parts of the world?
I didn't watch it - not really a royals person myself.
Over in this part of the world one of our prominent musicians said he thought the music was the best part of it - and also noted how good the intonation was. Maybe I should have a listen at least.
It was a lovely service. The bride and groom sang with commitment ;-) which impressed me.
I didn't think the Rutter was one of his best... quite dull and repetitive (and I am not one of the "Tavener GOOd Rutter BAD mob). Have to say I thought the Parry numbers were nicely sung, though - but I think the orchestral playing was more impressive than the organ.
QUOTE(mel2 @ Apr 29 2011, 11:09 PM)
I read on another forum that a soundtrack of the wedding will be released; hope so because I want one.
I see the official album is now available on the iTunes store for ?7.99
QUOTE(MDSS @ Apr 29 2011, 03:27 PM)
QUOTE(Czerny @ Apr 29 2011, 01:10 PM)
Didn't think much of the Rutter...
Glad it wasn't just me. I must say I was bored to tears by the Rutter
It just didn't seem to go anywhere.I agree too. The very first phrase made it obvious what was to follow and there were no surprises. In the defence of those who chose the music, this was commissioned as a gift to the couple, and was not particularly their choice. I loved the second Parry piece. But did anybody else feel that the Walton was a bit undramatic and not grand enough at that point?
I personally feel that the organ can't be beaten for this part of a wedding.
QUOTE(Dulciana @ Apr 30 2011, 10:35 AM)
But did anybody else feel that the Walton was a bit undramatic and not grand enough at that point?
Yes. I think there were two problems. Firstly the speed was just slightly too fast; a notch slower and it would have gained in grandeur, especially in that vast space. Secondly it was necessarily played by only a chamber orchestra rather than the full symphonic band the piece really needs - but that was unavoidable given the space available in the organ loft.
I agree with you Vox. Moreover, they seemed to used the organ just as in the full orchestral score i.e. at the restatement of the big tune in the tonic. With only a chamber orchestra they perhaps could have used the organ rather more. Crown Imperial needs a certain 'swagger' to be brought off really well. The original orchestration is huge, including triple woodwind, four horns, three trombones and three trumpets, tuba, double kitchen and harp, with organ ad lib. It seemed to me that they did not use Vilem Tausky's 'Reduced Version', but something even thinner. It is difficult to judge from the radio. Perhaps they used Hyam Greenbaum's arrangement or even something concoted for the occasion. The tempo was indeed too fast; it seemed about crotchet = 118, but was well below the full score marking of crotchet = 132, (Walton's 'Allegro reale'), which a terrific pace.
Edward Stourton, the BBC commentator on Radio 4, said that Crown Imperial was written for the 1937 Coronation "and used again in 1953". Of course, it was Orb and Sceptre in 1953, but Mr Stourton's commentary throughout was discreet and in no way obtrusive, which is altogether unusual these days.
Both Blaenwern (in F) and Cwm Rhondda (in G) lost colour and brilliance from the 'Kevin Mayhew treatment' of transposing to the lowest possible key. I do not understand why, with such magnificent professional choirs, it was necessary to do that.
But it was a glorious occasion, full of happiness and a rich celebration of joy in which (almost) all joined in, even if only, like me, on the radio. The musicians played superbly and, as we expected, were a great credit to our musical heritage.
Did anyone hear Widor's Toccata? It was not broadcast on radio, though I heard a little of it in the interview with Robert Quinney on radio 4 before the service.
Barry Williams
Edward Stourton, the BBC commentator on Radio 4, said that Crown Imperial was written for the 1937 Coronation "and used again in 1953". Of course, it was Orb and Sceptre in 1953, but Mr Stourton's commentary throughout was discreet and in no way obtrusive, which is altogether unusual these days.
Both Blaenwern (in F) and Cwm Rhondda (in G) lost colour and brilliance from the 'Kevin Mayhew treatment' of transposing to the lowest possible key. I do not understand why, with such magnificent professional choirs, it was necessary to do that.
But it was a glorious occasion, full of happiness and a rich celebration of joy in which (almost) all joined in, even if only, like me, on the radio. The musicians played superbly and, as we expected, were a great credit to our musical heritage.
Did anyone hear Widor's Toccata? It was not broadcast on radio, though I heard a little of it in the interview with Robert Quinney on radio 4 before the service.
Barry Williams
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