Prelude on "Pange Lingua"

SKU: PL.0618

* based on the chant, this work begins simply with flutes and mutations in duet * detailed registrations, appropriate for small or large instruments, as well as manual indications make the execution of this work very direct * registration indications and harmonic colors increase as the piece gradually builds * final section with octave chords and strong pedal foundation carries the piece to a dynamic climax * tempo slows by increments in the final measures, leading to the final modal cadence * a passionate instrumental expression of the text: printing the text of this hymn in a program or bulletin

Musically, this is a rather interesting piece with harmonic language that is more advanced than one might normally use in services, but here one can allways follow the hymn tune. The registration is highly colorful, using at 16' Quintaton played an octave higher, or substituting an 8' and 2 2/3'. As in the chorale preludes mentioned earlier, this work, too, creates a continuing crescendo to the end. Harmonically, this work makes use of some interesting ideas-mirroring short sections of the hymn tune as a motivic device, short canonic imitation, etc. Technically, it is fairly easy reading until about halfway, when close attention must be paid to accidentals. The last page will require some working of fingering in the right hand to maintain the legato sense of the phrase. - The Journal of the Association of Anglican Musicians March 2006.