Prelude on 'Londonderry Air' - Noel Rawsthorne

The famous Irish tune "Londonderry Air" is arranged here by the legendary English organist, Noel Rawsthorne who sadly died last year, 2019. The origin of the tune was for a long time somewhat mysterious, as no other collector of folk tunes encountered it until in 1855, when it was first published by the Society for the Preservation and Publication of the Melodies of Ireland in the book "The Ancient Music of Ireland".
Noel Rawshthorne was organist of Liverpool's marvellous Anglican Cathedral from 1955 until 1980 as well as being the City Organist until 1984. He arranged and composed many organ and choral works as well as a book of 400 last verse hymn arrangements which are loved throughout the world for both being harmonically pleasing and relatively easy to play for organists of all abilities.
I've once again used the Salisbury Cathedral Hauptwerk sample set which demonstrates some of the lovely gentler stops that are available, including the lovely solo Clarinet and Open Diapason No. 1.

[@gilesgilbertscott]

Thank you. I was privileged to be in Liverpool Cathedral for Noel’s Memorial Service during which his ashes were brought into the building to be set (at a later date) into the wall of the north choir aisle under the organ, next to his predecessor Harry Goss Custard. Ian Tracey played this arrangement before the service. A very emotional occasion for all who loved and admired Noel.

[@derekburnsorg]

Thanks Cae - it's such a lovely arrangement of this famous tune that Noel penned to paper. I only ever got to hear him play "live" once which was roughly 10 years ago within his beloved Anglican Cathedral, playing an impromptu improvised Fantasia on "A Mighty Fortress of Our God" at the end of an organists entertain recital kickstarting the latest restoration appeal. From what I remember, it was truly wonderful and in his very unique "Liverpooly" style that is so recognisable. I'm sure Ian, who is such a genuinely nice guy, would've worked his magic on this gorgeous piece, especially as it could've been very emotional playing at such a service. I have actually been very fortunate to have played the lovely WIllis within the Anglican Cathedral a few times over the last decade which were such wonderful experiences that will live with me forever.

[@ChrisRawsthorne24]

NR now resting in peace beneath the organ loft. Memorial plaque is also in place.

[@ubertuba]

Derek - I've just been listening and following along with my copy of the score, and I really have to congratulate you on your sense of phrasing, timings and dynamics which make this piece evoke the emotions the composer intended. Really beautiful.

[@derekburnsorg]

Thank you so much Ubertuba for your lovely comment and i'm so happy that my interpretation of this beautiful work has been enjoyed by yourself. :) Noel's harmonies and intended registrations really make this hymn-style prelude shine from start to finish! :)

[@james.flores]

Salisbury is a great sample set!

[@derekburnsorg]

Yep James, I agree it's a fantastic set, although most sample sets available on Hauptwerk are really amazing and so realistic!! D

[@tonybarde2572]

Oh, Danny boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling
From glen to glen, and down the mountain side.
The summer's gone, and all the roses falling,
It's you, It's you must go and I must bide.
But come ye back when summer's in the meadow,
Or when the valley's hushed and white with snow,
It's I'll be here in sunshine or in shadow,-
Oh, Danny boy, O Danny boy, I love you so!
But when ye come, and all the flowers are dying,
If I am dead, as dead I well may be,
Ye'll come and find the place where I am lying,
And kneel and say an Avè there for me.
And I shall hear, though soft you tread above me,
And all my grave will warmer, sweeter be,
For you will bend and tell me that you love me,
And I shall sleep in peace until you come to me!

[@josvanderwal3198]

Where can I download the sheet music I know there is a book called music of the bride but that book is out of stock I'm waiting for a remake from this book I hope that someone can help me

[@derekburnsorg]

Hello Jos, I believe you will be able to find it within the following book direct from the publisher: www.kevinmayhew.com/products/something-old-something-new-60-joyful-wedding-pieces-for-organ-1400520#contents - Hope this helps. D