~*~
An English
Suite
for
Keyboard or
Organ
.
Notes
An English Suite
is a curious but charming
Rococo
anomaly in four movements for keyboard, whether piano, harpsichord,
clavichord, or with its optional pedal lines for organ.
The first movement, Promenade, presents a stately and
rhythmically intricate melody, eight measures in length, above a simple bass
ostinato. These two voices repeat
their duet in treble and bass registers, but with each repetition a new
voice is introduced, ending in a four-part texture. A light Dance
in triple meter
follows: although akin to a menuet, it is rhythmically and metrically
unstable. The dance is followed by a sonorous and harmonically venturesome
Interlude, after which the Promenade returns with an
affirmative cadence to conclude the suite.
Interpretation of An English Suite could readily include use of
manual changes, contrasting timbres and registrations, and an expressive
range of touches and rubato to enhance the varied nature of each movement.
The Promenade provides a solemn march (in triple meter, no less), for
formal processionals and occasions, and the two
middle movements will offer timely musical
interludes when needed.