Walford Davies’ Holiday Tunes which had impressed Henry
Wood was a suite in some seven movements. It was written to “express the joyous
feelings often associated with holidays, but not necessarily restricted to
them.” In short this was a meditation on the ‘holiday spirit.’ It is worth
quoting the Musical Times reviewer in full on this work:-
'The opening allegro
energico starts with a violin solo announcing the principal theme which, since
it is headed estatico, may be intended to express pleasurable anticipations.
This at least accords with the spirit of the movement, which is developed at
some length. The second number is delightfully humorous and dainty, and has for
its chief subject quaint little tune of ingratiating character. A deeper note
is struck in the third section and andante con moto of poetic expression, and
having a finale of great beauty.’ Here the reviewer appears to have lost
interest. The remaining four movements are quickly summed up as being of less
importance, ‘consist[ing] of a Presto (in G) of gay character; a short peaceful
andante tranquillo; a rocking tune which might be described as a lullaby, since
it is based on the composer’s setting of George Wither’s poem ‘Sweet baby,
sleep,’ and a bustling finale in march rhythm.’
Holiday Tunes is a work that appears to fall into the category
of 'light’ music. Perhaps one of the CD companies that specialise in ‘light
music discoveries’ could be tempted to revive this work. I guess it would sit
well with Percy Whitlock’s Holiday Suite.
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