Fantasia on “Adeste Fideles”

Description

This work opens with a lyrical, jazz-like setting of the tune on a solo flute accompanied by quiet harmonies reminiscent of Leo Sowerby’s style. The large middle section opens with a fugue that gradually becomes more active rhythmically and turns into a brilliant toccata with double pedal. The rapid motion tapers off using fragments of the toccata section and the piece returns to the lyrical mood of the opening. Throughout the work, Mr. Neswick gives much opportunity for colorful registration while giving the organist a virtuoso part for the pedals.