Revered teacher, organ virtuoso, master of counterpoint, devotee of the chorale, enthusiast for the Italian forms of composition, pathfinder and worthy predecessor of Bach: such was Johann Pachelbel. Matthew Owens presents a selection of Pachelbel’s works on the UK’s only Ahrend Organ, housed in the Reid Concert Hall at the University of Edinburgh. It is an instrument of exceptional refinement; the voicing is direct and clear and yet full of subtleties; This recording presents a completely satisfying union of instrument, repertoire and performer.
“The UK's only Ahrend proves itself an articulate advocate for Pachelbel … vivid recorded sound adds to the pleasure” Choir & Organ, September 2007
“… performer, instrument and music all combine to great effect” The Organ, August-October 2007
“This rigorously compiled tribute to Johann Pachelbel, featuring former Edinburgh cathedral organist Matthew Owens, opts sensibly for the German Baroque-style Ahrend organ in Edinburgh University’s Reid Concert Hall, where its relative isolation and direct acoustics provide an excellent recording environment. Owen’s dynamically articulated performances and sensibility of phrasing continually open the ears to the inventiveness of Pachelbel’s Italian-inspired music.” The Scotsman
