Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

I have one problem with this release but before we come to that let me applaud both the performance of organist Andrew Kirk and the excellent selection of material that shows off the wonderful instrument in all its glory. The repertoire featured here is entirely secular and is all very listenable. We open with a Fantasia in F minor (K609) by Mozart and conclude with an Introduction and Passacaglia in D minor by Max Reger and everything in between is just as good. My personal favourite is Elgar's "Imperial March" (Op 32) transcribed by George C Martin but there really is not a dull moment in the whole 73 minutes. The Harrison & Harrison organ was built in 1911 and was regarded by Arthur Harrison as his masterpiece. Alfred Hollins, whose "Song of Sunshine" is included on this disc, thought it the finest instrument he had ever played. The restoration by Harrison & Harrison commenced in January 2009 and was completed in August 2010 and this recording shows what a fine job has been done. So what is my problem? Musically I have none at all but it was as I read the extensive and interesting notes in the CD booklet that I saw the restoration cost £800,000! I know it is not really my place to comment - it was not my money after all - and perhaps this would make an interesting discussion piece in a more appropriate place but I cannot help wondering what Jesus would have done with all that money. In musical terms this is a splendid CD and as a part of the heritage of a major church in one of the country's historic cities there is, perhaps, a need for this sort of project. Those in favour are encouraged to contribute by buying a copy of this CD.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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