Wesley Suite: “The world is my parish” – Four contrasting pieces for organ

Description

Wesley Suite has been written as a tribute to John and Charles Wesley, 18th century clergymen and co–founders of the Methodist Church.

Wesley Suite contains four contrasting pieces.

1.     The title “Wondering Soul” is a reference to the first line of the Wesleys’ Conversion Hymn, “Where shall my wondering soul begin?” which was written after John Wesley’s Aldersgate Street experience in which he felt his heart was “strangely warmed”. Listen here:
   
2.     “Wesley’s Gallop” paints a musical picture of John Wesley riding on horseback around the towns and villages of England, preaching the Gospel in churches, halls, fields, cottages and chapels. Listen here:
   
3.     “Chapel Prayer” is a reflective piece referring to Wesley’s Chapel in City Road, London, a Methodist Church built under the direction of John Wesley. Listen here:
   
4.     The word “Liberty” in the title of “Liberty Fanfare” refers to John Wesley’s advocacy for the abolition of slavery. He wrote, “Liberty is the right of every human creature”. The piece contains musical references to two well–known hymns– (i) “Amazing Grace”, the words of which were written by his fellow abolitionist, friend and mentor, John Newton, as well as (ii) “And can it be”, the words of which were written by Charles Wesley. Listen here:
   

While you listen to the recordings above, you can read the score by clicking on this thumbnail:

Wesley Suite: “The world is my parish” – Four contrasting pieces for organ