Introduction & Fugue for Organ
For Malcolm Stowell

I composed the Introduction & Fugue for the organist at St. Mary's Slough (Malcolm Stowell) during late March, early April 2005. The piece was given its premier on 15th July 2006 at St. Mary's by Malcolm on the organ for which it was intended.

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Analysis:

The piece is based on techniques of serialism. The basic tone row (P0) and all its variations can be seen in the following matrix. The rules of serialism are not employed strictly but only as the spring board to freer composition.

Introduction:
The introduction is in a loose ternary form (1-16, 17-29, 30-48). The opening idea (created from P0) sets the tone for the movement. This 3-bar idea is treated in two-part counterpoint (left hand = P10) until bar 9 when the organ pedals take over (based on P0). Bars 8-16 see the development in the right hand of the motifs found in 4-5 (right hand). This is accompanied by a new triplet idea in the left hand. The middle section of the movement begins in bar 17 with the rushing semi quavers. This figuration accompanies a new idea which is in turn developed (17-25). Bars 26-28 contain a hint of the original theme preparing the way for its return. At 30-34 the main theme reappears in stretto with the right hand playing it in 4ths and the left hand in 5ths. As the piece comes to a conclusion, motifs from earlier return. The thunderous ending restates the main theme.

Fugue:
The fugue is in four voices with the subject begriming with P0 (bb1-2) followed by RI1 (bb3-4). The 'real' answer mimics this (P10, RI7). Fugal form is varied slightly when the third voice enters (b13) as it is another answer. This is followed by a two-bar episode (17-18) before the final voice enters. The middle section begins at 23 marked by a change of mood. For the most part, this middle section strays from the matrix above. The final section (50-end) sees a return of the answer with various restatements. The 'fluttering' motifs from the middle appears frequently building to the climax (76). An abridged version of the subject is played in the pedals (76-77) before the piece closes quoting the Introduction.

Recent Performances:
-(15/7/06) Slough, UK. Premiere performance by Malcolm Stowell. At. St. Mary's Church.