Celebration

Description

‘Celebration’ was composed in 2023. It was written as a gift to Reverend Julia Cody on her induction as Rector of St Benedict’s Church Wombourne, and was first performed during the final procession of the induction service. It can be played on organ manuals without pedals, but is equally effective on the piano. The mood is bright and cheerful, and the 5/4 rhythm gives the music plenty of drive and energy. Passages of scales, especially those in 3rds, recall the joyful pealing of church bells at the service. The accompaniment at the final return of the main theme also has a personal significance. Julia is very attached to her dog, Missy, and the grace notes imitate the repeated, high barking of the little Poodle / Bedlington Terrier cross. For the induction I included a slower middle section, reflecting the more serious and thoughtful aspects of the service, but this may be omitted if it makes it too long for liturgical use.