The Song of the Church

This book contains four variations on the tune WESTMINSTER ABBEY. The first masterfully incorporates a Purcell sonata for a regal feel, with the tune in the pedal. The next variation is a light tricinium, with a slow-moving cantus firmus in the left hand, continuous movement with ornamentation in the right hand, and a walking bass in the pedal. This is followed by a movement of lush harmonies utilizing strings with a flute solo in the pedal. The book finishes with a gripping variation that shifts back and forth between a big, grand, almost menacing maestoso section and an energetic, dancing 6/8 that keeps shifting keys—full of surprises and fun to play.