Search - Leo Sowerby, Jean Roger-Ducasse, Frederic Chopin :: Historic Organs of Philadelphia

Historic Organs of Philadelphia, produced by OHS.

Jacques Messier | Montréal, Canada | 02/13/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"At first sight, this 4 Cds set is quite pale with a more than sober presentation, entirely flat green coloured. But overcoming this unusual appearance worthed the price. Lets mention for instance, the booklet: 43 pages, an anthology by itself. Well documented and full of explanations, pictures, details of all kinds, it's a must to the listening.



This project of revitalizing special historical organs, 32 here, is very interesting by the variety of pieces and styles, all put together to entertain people. Let put it that way: it's a popular approach to classical organ, not too crunchy for an unfamiliar audience. Just few theatre organ pieces which are frankly not my cup of tea.



With four Cds, the repertoire is ample (more then 50 pieces), and the variety of genre makes room for everyone's taste. The only weakness, which is not proper to this particular set, is some lack in interpretation, maybe due to the variety of the repertoire without common approach. So, what it gains in size may be lost in style. Few interpretations are fair and recording at times, quite standard.



Few good discoveries though: Sowerby's Pageant Cd 1,1 with a continuo on the pedal : an athletic performance, Roger Ducasse Cd 1,2 quite exiting. The Chopin Cd 1,3 could be better. Rapidly performed, this piece is to my view, better on piano, so the organ deep breathing is not very accurate, but for sure, it makes the effect. Pieces including quires are very interesting and easy going: Cd 2,3 for instance puts you in the mood of sing along !



On the whole, a good set for collectors, those who like organ as instrument more then repertoire, those who prefer a relaxing and pure pleasure of listening while in concert on weekdays... Nothing heavy or too much conceptual as some other organ performances are at times.

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