Description
The arranger, Kenneth Downie writes:
‘This music was commissioned by Mike Griffiths, Music Director of Riviera Concert Brass, based in Torquay in Devon, England. It is developed around the hymn tune Margaret, and written in memory of the lady of that name who was a renowned supporter of, and generous donor to the band.
The graceful melody was written by Timothy Matthews (1826-1910), and it is usually associated with the words of the hymn, the first verse of which says:
Thou didst leave thy throne and thy kingly crown
When thou camest to earth for me;
But in Bethlehem’s home was there found no room
For thy holy nativity,
O come to my heart, Lord Jesus;
There is room in my heart for thee.
I feel that there is a strong emotional core to this lovely tune and any performance should seek to bring out this quality, in a musical manner.’
