This is a new printing of the original edition on sturdy, acid-free paper. Bedell indicated that this was an hommage to J S Bach. He used the chorale melody, Schmücke Dich, “Deck Thyself My Soul with Gladness,” which is widely recognized. 4 pages. Highest quality guaranteed. Size of music is 9.5" x 12.5". $4.00.

Robert Leech Bedell (1909-1974) was an organist, editor, and composer of approximately forty organ works, pieces for organ and instruments, and choral music. He was fond of finding and promoting unknown music and was an avid Francophile, naming his publishing company “Edition Le Grand Orgue.” Bedell later released “Toccata Basse” under this banner. The outer sections of this toccata surround a setting of Johann Crüger’s tune which was written in 1649. Bedell’s piece is dedicated to Julius Bloom (1913–1984), composer and musician who from 1941 until 1960 was the director of the Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences (including the Brooklyn Academy of Music where Bedell performed on their Austin organ). From 1960 until 1979, Bloom was the director of Carnegie Hall, where he arranged over 1300 concerts. This is an approachable pedal piece, not as long or as difficult as many others. Moderate.