Jane Parker-Smith releases her third volume of romantic and virtuoso works for organ. Here we see original pieces by Saint-Saëns, Wiedermann, Landmann, Bairstow Hubert H. Parry, Gárdonyi and two arrangements: Lizst’s magnificent Symphonic Poem Orpheus, in a transcription by Jean Guillou and the Scherzo Symphonique by Pierre Cochereau, transription by Jeremy Filsell.
Jane Parker-Smith is one of the world’s leading concert organists, acclaimed by the critics and public alike for her musicianship, virtuosity and interpretative ability. She has been awarded numerous prizes and scholarships, including a French government scholarship which enabled her to complete her studies in Paris with the legendary blind organist Jean Langlais and to perfect her knowledge and understanding of twentieth-century organ music for which she is now internationally renowned.
The Organ of the Catholic Parish Church of St. Gudula in Rhede
The instrument, built in 1998 by Romanus Seifert & Sohn of Kevelaer Germany, has 52 stops, divided into 3 manuals and a pedal. The organ is equipped with a slider soundboard with a tracker action and electric stop control.
Located behind the organ case are the Great organ, the Positif (expressive) and the Pedal organ. Behind this lies the Swell. The large wooden pipes of the Subbass 32’ are positioned at the back of the organ and these can be viewed from the entrance hall to the tower.
14 stops were taken from its predecessor (Horstenke, Telgte 1874 and Breil, Dorsten 1902/1937) as well as from the stock of historic stops kept by the Seifert workshop. Thus an artistically ‘universal’ organ came into being, with stylistic references to the German and French late Romantic period.
“Light (and not so light) relief, as the virtuosic Parker-Smith continues he exploration of some unusual repertoire. The dazzling Cochereau Scherzo symphonique shows off both organist and an excitingly recorded organ in Rhede, Germany.” BBC Music Magazine, October 2009 ****
“Once again Jane Parker-Smith has produced a high-class display of her impeccable musicianship, mixing well known repertory with several overlooked and neglected pieces. This generously filled disc makes a refreshing listening experience. Strongly recommended.” Gramophone Magazine, May 2009
