Fantasy on Were You There
Garth Baxter, Composer
Category: Organ / Sacred Music
Instrumentation: organ
Duration: 4 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate
Publisher: Alymar
Fantasy on Were You There is a free setting of the familiar Lenten spiritual Were You There. The work presents numerous allusions to the main theme, interspersed with contrasting episodes, allowing the spiritual to emerge gradually through a reflective and expressive musical landscape.
Although tonal, the traditional melody is treated with non-traditional harmonies and changing meters. Homophonic and polyphonic textures are freely combined, giving the piece both contemplative stillness and contrapuntal depth. The work has been especially moving for audiences and organists, making it well suited for Holy Week services, sacred concerts, and reflective organ recitals.
Suitable for intermediate organists, Fantasy on Were You There calls for expressive registration, sensitive pacing, and careful attention to the balance between hymn-based lyricism and contrapuntal writing.
“Very beautifully written and captures the reflective and contemplative nature of the hymn as well as a quiet sorrowful lament. Very moving reflection for Holy Week.”
“Really lovely, with great color/register changes. And I loved the counterpoint.”