Organ Fireworks 9: Organ of Berner Münster, Switzerland

Christopher Herrick, renowned for his virtuosic organ playing, presents "Organ Fireworks 9," a captivating exploration of the magnificent organ of Berner Münster in Switzerland. Released in 2001 on the prestigious Hyperion label, this album is a testament to Herrick's technical prowess and musical sensitivity.

Spanning a diverse repertoire, the album opens with the grand "An Occasional Trumpet Voluntary," setting the stage for a journey through various musical landscapes. Herrick's arrangement of Bartók's "Romanian Folk Dances" brings a touch of Eastern European folk music to the organ, showcasing the instrument's versatility. The album also features Bach's "Chromatic Fantasia & Fugue in D Minor," arranged by Reger, demonstrating Herrick's command of the Baroque repertoire.

Herrick's own compositions are also prominently featured, including the whimsical "7 Allegorical Pictures on Norwegian Folktune 'Kling no, klokka'" and the evocative "Bohemesque." The album concludes with the exhilarating "Toccata. Allegro" from Charles-Marie Widor's "Organ Symphony No. 5 in F Minor, Op. 42/1," a piece that highlights the organ's full power and range.

With a duration of over an hour, "Organ Fireworks 9" offers a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned organ enthusiast or a casual listener, this album is sure to impress with its technical brilliance and musical depth. The organ of Berner Münster, with its rich history and stunning acoustics, provides the perfect setting for Herrick's performances, making this album a true celebration of the organ and its repertoire.

Christopher Herrick is a distinguished English concert organist renowned for his captivating interpretations of J.S. Bach’s organ music. With a powerful urge to communicate, Herrick draws on his vast technical and intellectual prowess to deliver performances that are as astonishing as they are inspiring. His career spans decades, including a notable tenure as the organist of Westminster Abbey and conductor of the Twickenham Choral. Herrick's discography is extensive, featuring recordings on some of the world's finest pipe organs, and his live performances are equally celebrated, often accompanied by top-tier instrumentalists and vocal soloists. Whether performing locally or in prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall, Herrick's dynamic presence and exceptional musicianship make him a standout figure in the world of organ music.