Solemn Melody - Walford Davies

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About This Work

Walford Davies's ‘Solemn Melody' is a lovely, touching, tune and one of the few works that continue to keep his name alive as a composer. It is a fine piece that leads the listener to wonder if the neglect of his larger-scale music is justifiable.

Henry Walford Davies (1869-1941) is from Welsh stock although he was born in the English county of Shropshire. He composed two symphonies, other orchestral music, chamber music and a large number of choral and vocal works. Even during his life his works were rarely performed and although he did not give up composition he became reconciled to teaching music at Aberystwyth University.

As a composer he is represented only by a few short works including some church anthems; including the famous ‘Let Us Now Praise Famous Men', the RAF March Past and ‘Solemn Melody'.

‘Solemn Melody' first appeared in 1908 in a version for organ and strings. Davies adapted it for full orchestra later. It is in a simple song form. The tune is rich, warm, and flowing, and avoids either a feeling of British pomp or a sense of religiosity. This new arrangement by Geoff Kingston for Concert Band adheres closely to the orchestral score and includes the original part for Organ. Ideal for all concerts; especially leading up to Remembrance Sunday.

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