The Water is Wide | A New Organ Meditation | Rien Schalkwijk Op. 52

Rather than creating a straightforward arrangement, I wanted to write a new musical meditation inspired by the beauty and atmosphere of this wonderful tune. The melody appears naturally throughout the piece, surrounded by new harmonies, textures and a lyrical, expressive accompaniment.

The opening is marked Molto Rubato, allowing the melody to unfold with freedom, almost as if it were being sung. As the piece progresses, it develops into a warm and reflective meditation, inviting the performer to shape the music in a personal way. As I mention in the score, my suggested registrations are only that... suggestions. Feel free to adapt them to your own instrument and musical taste.

C.F. in the Tenor (played with the pedals) and Soprano.

I hope this piece offers a few moments of peace and reflection, both for those who listen and for those who choose to play it.