Dear Friends,
For this Sunday’s prelude, I will play a voluntary entitled Tranquility by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry. Parry is considered one of the foremost composers of Anglican church music, and his writing is often characterized as romantic because of its highly emotive style.
Tranquility begins with a gentle exposition of its main theme, which is reminiscent of a chorale without words. This theme is then repeated, and embellished with an added pedal part. In the development that follows, the composer expands upon the original material, and a rich harmonic dialogue ensues. At its height, this dialogue is broken, and the piece is concluded with a quiet echo of its original theme.
Parry’s music is emotive by nature, and he purposefully uses the gestures of music to stir emotions in us. What emotions will Tranquility stir in you? Peaceful ones, I hope.
Enjoy the music - and until we meet again, take care and stay well!
David