The Organ of Westminster Cathedral

Album Description

Experience the grandeur and sonic splendor of Westminster Cathedral's renowned organ with Robert Quinney's captivating debut solo album. Recorded in May 2004, this double-CD set showcases Quinney's virtuosity and the organ's breathtaking capabilities, making it a standout release in the organ repertoire.

The album features a diverse selection of works by Johannes Brahms, Richard Wagner, and Marcel Dupré, each composer bringing their unique voice to the instrument. Brahms' compositions, including the Academic Festival Overture and Variations on a Theme by Haydn, are performed with a sensitivity that highlights the organ's expressive range. Wagner's orchestral masterpieces, such as the Siegfried Idyll and the Prelude to Act 1 of Die Meistersingers von Nürnberg, are masterfully transcribed for the organ, offering a fresh perspective on these iconic works.

Marcel Dupré's intricate and technically demanding pieces, including his Preludes and Fugues and Variations sur un Noël, are tackled with impressive skill and precision by Quinney. The album also includes Dupré's Evocation and Cortège et Litanie, further demonstrating the organ's versatility and Quinney's command of the instrument.

Produced by Adrian Peacock and engineered by Mike Hatch and Limo, the recording captures the organ's rich, resonant sound in stunning detail. The album's duration of 2 hours and 25 minutes offers an immersive listening experience, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the depth and beauty of the music.

Robert Quinney, one of the new generation of English organists, delivers a powerful and nuanced performance that showcases his artistry and the organ's majestic presence. Whether you're a seasoned organ enthusiast or new to the genre, this album is sure to impress with its technical prowess and musical depth.

7 november 2006

About Robert Quinney

Robert Quinney is a distinguished British organist and choral director, renowned for his dynamic leadership and captivating performances. As the Director of the Choir of New College, Oxford, he guides one of the world's most celebrated choirs, continuing a legacy of musical excellence. Prior to this, Quinney served as Sub-Organist at Westminster Abbey and Director of Music at Peterborough Cathedral, showcasing his versatility and depth of musical knowledge.

Born in Nottingham, Quinney's musical journey began as a chorister in Dundee Cathedral Choir. He further honed his skills at King's College, Cambridge, where he was an Organ Scholar and read Music. His career is marked by a blend of full-time performing, teaching, and writing about music, making him a well-rounded figure in the musical community. Quinney's love for the organ and choral music is evident in his performances and recordings, which often highlight the works of composers like J.S. Bach and Frescobaldi. His engaging presence and expertise have also led him to share his insights on platforms like BBC Radio 3, enriching the experience of music enthusiasts everywhere.