Liszt, Reubke, Mendelssohn: Organ Works

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the organ with Stephen Cleobury's masterful interpretation of works by Liszt, Reubke, and Mendelssohn. Released on May 4, 2015, this album is a testament to Cleobury's virtuosity and the stunning acoustics of the Harrison & Harrison organ in the chapel of King's College, Cambridge. This recording is particularly special as it features the first-ever surround sound recordings of this magnificent instrument, offering an unparalleled listening experience.

The album opens with Franz Liszt's monumental "Fantasy and Fugue on 'Ad nos, ad salutarem undam,'" a piece that showcases Cleobury's technical prowess and the organ's impressive range. Following this is Julius Reubke's powerful "Organ Sonata in C Minor on the 94th Psalm," a work that demands both physical and mental stamina from the performer. The album concludes with Felix Mendelssohn's "Organ Sonata No. 6 in D Minor, Op. 65 No. 6," a piece that highlights the organ's lyrical capabilities.

Each track is performed with precision and passion, demonstrating Cleobury's deep understanding of these complex works. The surround sound recording allows for a immersive experience, with the organ's rich tones and textures filling the space around you. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The album is released by Kings College Cambridge and has a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes.

Sir Stephen Cleobury was a renowned English organist and music director, celebrated for his profound impact on the world of choral music. Born in Bromley, Kent, Cleobury's musical journey began as a chorister at Worcester Cathedral, where he honed his skills under the guidance of Douglas Guest and Christopher Robinson. His academic and musical pursuits led him to St John's College, Cambridge, where he served as an organ scholar, and later to Westminster Abbey as sub-organist. Cleobury's most notable tenure was as the Director of Music at King's College, Cambridge, where he led the world-famous choir for an impressive 37 years, from 1982 until his retirement in 2019. Under his baton, the choir achieved international acclaim, with broadcasts of the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols reaching millions of people worldwide. Cleobury's contributions to music were recognized with a knighthood in 2019, just months before his passing on November 22, the Feast of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music. His legacy endures as a testament to his dedication, passion, and unparalleled influence on Anglican choral music.