Organ performances are just as much about the organ being played upon as the music being played and the performer playing it. On this CD all come together for a most satisfying result. A purpose of this disc is to demonstrate the versatility of the Royal Albert Hall organ, restored in 2003-2004. Each work was selected to demonstrate specific aspects of this organ.
W.T. Best was the most famous British organist of the Victorian era.
Mendelssohn was the musical idol of Victorian England. So it is indeed appropriate to begin this recital with Best's transcription of Mendelssohn's "Overture" to the "Oratorio St. Paul" as homage to the man (Best) who inaugurated the Royal Albert Hall organ in 1871 with Queen Victoria in attendance.
Robert Schumann's "Six Fugues on B-A-C-H, Op. 60," demonstrate the wide dynamic arrange and sonic possibilities of this instrument.
Bolcom's "Free Fantasia" shows its ability to deal with twentieth century musical idioms. The
Gershwin medley, arranged by
Howard Cable, shows the ability of this organ to adapt to the sounds of a theater organ.
Jongen's "Sonata Eroïca, Op. 94," and
Karg-Elert's "Valse Mignonne, Op. 142/7," show this organ capably as a versatile symphonic instrument. Organist
Simon Preston, an award-winning organist and conductor, adapts easily to the various demands of this varied music. His playing is solid, assured, spirited, and dynamic. The sonics are warm and rich. All in all, a fitting tribute to a fine concert instrument.
