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...the festal trumpet sounds
NO. 1: VOLUNTARY IN B FLAT MAJOR
This short voluntary, suitable for ceremonial occasions, exploits a rhythmic interplay between the two soloists. It was first performed in St John’s Church, Batheaston, Bath UK, on May Day, 2010 by trumpeter Tom Ashby and the composer (organ).
Composed in 2009, it is structured in five sections: A B A1 C A2. However, the first episode is primarily for organ, and is a mere eight bars before the trumpet restates the main theme. The second episode is considerably longer and more relaxed in character.
The main theme returns to conclude the piece, highlighting the trumpet’s stirring upper register.
NO 2: THORNBURY ELABORATION
The accompaniment for this elaboration is simply two reiterated verses of the hymn tune Thornbury by composer and organist Basil Harwood (1859 -1949). Above this the trumpet elaborates two contrapuntal melodies of increasing complexity, once again exploiting the upper register to good effect.
NO 3: HYFRODOL ELABORATION
Similar to Thornbury, the accompaniment here is also two consecutive verses of a well-known hymn tune: this time Hyfrodol by R.H.Prichard (1811 -1887). Likewise, the trumpet elaborates two contrasting melodies – the first a legato descant, the second more clamorous and fluid. This Elaboration was composed in 1974 for an induction service in St Martin’s Church, Fenny Stratford, Bucks, UK.