Melrose Abbey is the third of three studies for organ inspired by a visit to the Scottish Borders in August 2003. Each movement reflects the character of one of the great ruined Scottish Abbeys as well as focusing on a particular aspect of organ technique. They are designed for the developing player, each presenting a particular but surmountable challenge of technique. The burial place of the heart of Robert the Bruce, and of other Scottish Kings, Melrose has a great sense of history. Its use after the Reformation as a Scottish Kirk is reflected in the use of the Psalm Tune York in this piece, which gradually appears, revealing itself as the culminating point of the ‘scotch snap’ idea present in all three studies. There are also reminiscences of the main melody of
Dryburgh Abbey, second study in the set. This is a movement for all those keen to play a toccata but, perhaps, not yet quite ready for Widor!
Organist Tom Bell has performed the piece widely and recorded it on the organ of Blackburn Cathedral. The recording is on the CD
Northern Lights, on the London Independent Records label: LIR Classics LIR025.
- ISMN: 9790570683864 (M570683864)