(March 28, 2011) Written more or less as a homage to Olivier Messiaen, this features a plainchant-like melody in the bass clef interspersed with phrases of the "Old Hundredth" hymn tune ("Doxology" or "Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow" - in three keys at the same time - in the treble. It is a study in tone and balance, blended together with lots of pedal.
It is dedicated to Jimmy New of Wedowee, Alabama, who was my piano teacher through much of my teenage years. (His wife is my cousin Johnnie French New, as well.) He opened my eyes - and my ears - to many twentieth-century musical styles. It may well be one of the least-understood of my pieces, but it is more than a little special to me.
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| This view inside an old Belgian church could have been an inspiration for this piece. Surely this organ once pealed out the "Old Hundredth" often. |
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