These are my organ CD highlights - those CDs are perfect in everything, quality of the instrument, of the recording and of the interpretation, just simply the "hottest".
Please note: click on the CD cover for a larger picture with complete CD track list, click on the 'detail' button to the right for organ specifications.
On this site you can also order CDs online or download organ music as MP3 files: for CDs click here / for MP3s click here
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Spiritual Movement No. 2
Barbara Dennerlein plays jazz and blues works and improvisations on a pipe organ D, Berlin, Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche Organ by Karl Schuke (1962) 99 ranks, 63 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Bebab, recorded 2008, 8 tracks, total time: 70:13 |  __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: It is incredible what Barbara Dennerlein - who normally plays the Hammond B3 - is able to perform on a big tracker action pipe organ. This CD is a must-have even for those who are not that much into jazz. I attended this concert in November 2007, I tell you, it is an authentic live recording! |
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Die Eule-Orgel der Kathedrale St. Sebastian zu Magdeburg
Improvisations by Matthias Mück and Otto Maria Krämer around the church year D, Magdeburg, Kathedrale St. Sebastian Organ by Eule (2005) 73 ranks, 56 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 3 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Unda Maris, recorded 2005, 25 tracks, total time: 79:52 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Matthias Mück and Otto Maria Krämer present lively and imaginative improvisations with an "Owl' Time Rag" as a great finale on the Eule (German: owl) organ. In my opinion this organ is among those organs recently built with the most beautiful sound. |
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Musica Mystica - Gregorianik im Dialog
Andreas Sieling and the Berliner Domkantorei, conducted by Tobias Brommann, interpret works by Charles Tournemire D, Berlin, Dom Organ by Sauer (1905) 133 ranks, 112 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: DG, recorded 2008, 20 tracks, total time: 79:05 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: You might wonder why a French late Romantic composer is played on a typically German orchestral organ: the Berlin Cathedral organ with its stoplist rich in fundamental is indeed very much suited for the presentation of the mystical works of Tournemire. Listen and immerse yourself in the music. |
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The Goldberg Variations
Jean Guillou plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach F, Alpe d'Huez, Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Organ by Kleuker (1978) 37 ranks, 24 voices / registers, 2 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Dorian, recorded 1987, 32 tracks, total time 53:59 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Fantastic transcription for the organ – very accentuated performance, excellently registrated plus - a perfect recording technique. |
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Organ Works
Peter Hurford plays works by Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy D, Ratzeburg, Dom (Hauptorgel) Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz (1978-1994) 90 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Argo / Decca, recorded 1986, 11 tracks, total time 57:55 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The best Mendelssohn interpretation there is on an organ: fresh and accentuated performance and perfect sound quality. |
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Let's go to the Opera!
Thomas Heywood plays works by different composers USA, Galveston, Moody Memorial First United Methodist Church Organ by Schantz (1998) 117 ranks, 88 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Pro Organo, recorded 2003, 13 tracks, total time 75:19 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Excellent transcription, meticulous and refreshing performance by Thomas Heywood. Excellent sound recording. |
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Who needs an Orchestra!
Thomas Heywood plays works by different composers AUS, Melbourne, Town Hall Organ by Hill / Norman & Beard / Ingram / Schantz (1872-2001) 149 ranks, 116 voices / registers (6 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Pro Organo, recorded 2001, 10 tracks, total time 74:23 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Once again Thomas Heywood, this time in his home town on the newly restored large concert organ of Melbourne Town Hall. Superb transcriptions and sound quality. |
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Dancing Pipes
Hans Uwe Hielscher plays works by different composers D, Wiesbaden, Ev. Marktkirche Organ by Walcker / Sauer / Oberlinger (1863-1982) 122 ranks, 85 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: ifo, recorded 2000, 17 tracks, total time 72:30 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Just simply fantastic: Hans-Uwe Hielscher plays transcriptions of well-known classic works, many of which he transcribed himself. |
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Calvary Grand Organ Dedication
Dan Miller plays works by different composers USA, Charlotte, Calvary Church Organ by Möller (1990) 205 ranks, 133 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Dan Miller, recorded 1990, 9 tracks, total time 67:43 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A set of fireworks with well-known compositions (mainly transcriptions) - played with a refreshing genius and colorfully registered by Dan Miller on the massive Calvary organ. This is an excellent demo CD telling you how much there can be in sound variety to a great organ as well as to a great hifi set. This CD can be ordered directly from Dan Miller. |
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The Power and the Glory
Dan Miller plays works by different composers USA, Charlotte, Calvary Church Organ by Möller (1990) 205 ranks, 133 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Dan Miller, recorded 1994, 16 tracks, total time 65:44 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Another miracle in interpretation and sound: Dan Miller playing on the huge Calvary organ, one of the last organs built by the great American organbuilding company Möller. This CD can be ordered directly from Dan Miller. |
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Sounds Spectacular
Thomas Trotter plays works by different composers GB, Birmingham, Symphony Hall Organ by Klais (2002) 104 ranks, 82 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: SH, recorded 2003, 16 tracks, total time 70:28 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A musical survey of the centuries – period interpretation masterfully performed on the excellent and versatile Klais organ. |
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Ludger Mai spielt virtuose Orgelmusik
Ludger Mai plays works by different composers D, Berlin, St. Matthias Organ by Seifert / Stockmann (1958-1993) 109 ranks, 74 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: o Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 197?, 10 tracks, total time 39:47 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Ludger Mai plays French romanticists with breathtaking virtuosity – this perfectly makes up for the slightly imperfect sound recording of the 70’s (I have often played this organ myself, it has much more pressure in the basses and less sharp trebles). |
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Das Orgelwerk (2 CDs)
Hans Davidsson plays works by Matthias Weckmann D, Norden, St. Ludgeri Organ by De Mare / Evers / Schnitger / Ahrend (1567-1985) 77 ranks, 46 voices / registers, 3 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 1990, 44 tracks, total time 77:35 (CD 1), 78:16 (CD 2) | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Incredibly rich performance of early baroque music. This is by far the best Weckmann recording I know. Exactly the right organ, excellent sound recording. |
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Dom zu Passau
Edgar Krapp plays works by different composers D, Passau, Dom St. Stephan Organ by Steinmeyer / Eisenbarth (1928-1981) 327 ranks, 229 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Eurodisc, recorded 1983, 8 tracks, total time 59:10 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A very good musical sampler, excellently interpreted and recorded on the world’s (then) largest church organ. |
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Die Passauer Domorgel
Helga Schauerte plays works by different composers D, Passau, Dom St. Stephan Organ by Steinmeyer / Eisenbarth (1928-1981) 327 ranks, 229 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Syrius, recorded 1995, 15 tracks, total time 76:01 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: With some very impressive works Helga Schauerte presents the power of the world’s (then) largest church organ. |
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Klavierwerke J.S. Bachs für die Orgel bearbeitet von Max Reger
Irénée Peyrot plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach D, Gelsenkirchen, Hans-Sachs-Haus Konzertsaal Organ by Walcker / Seifert (1927-2007) 135 ranks, 89 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: organ, recorded 2000, 21 tracks, total time 75:09 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The last recording on the Hans-Sachs-Haus concert organ that is presently turned in for restoration - a very good Bach interpretation. |
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Pictures at an exhibition
Jean Guillou plays works by Modest Mussorgski / Igor Stravinski / Jean Guillou CH, Zürich, Tonhalle Organ by Steinmeyer / Kleuker (1965-1988) 103 ranks, 68 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Dorian, recorded 1989, 18 tracks, total time 53:03 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A first-rate musical, sound and registration firework, set in scene by Dorian’s typically perfect sound recording. |
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Great European Organs, No. 10
Keith John plays works by Modest Mussorgski / Jehan Alain / Keith John CH, Zürich, Tonhalle Organ by Steinmeyer / Kleuker (1965-1988) 103 ranks, 68 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Priory, recorded 1988, 19 tracks, total time 56:36 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: It isn’t only Jean Guillou standing for remarkable interpretations and registrations! Keith John’s version of ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ is first-rate, too. |
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Guilmant - Widor - Franck
Ian Tracey / BBC Philharmonic / Yan Pascal Tortelier plays works by Félix Alexandre Guilmant / Charles Marie Widor / César Franck GB, Liverpool, Anglican Cathedral Organ by Willis / Harrison & Harrison / Wells (1926-2000) 184 ranks, 145 voices / registers (6 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Chandos, recorded 2000, 8 tracks, total time 71:37 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The largest British organ with its huge bass foundation together with the BBC orchestra. Especially the Guilmant part is absolutely exceptional in interpretation as well as sound. |
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L'Orgue Georg Stahlhuth, Saint-Martin Dudelange
Naji Hakim plays works by different composers LUX, Dudelange, Saint-Martin Organ by Stahlhuth / Jann (1912-2002) 88 ranks, 72 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Aeolus, recorded 2002, 8 tracks, total time 73:20 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Naji Hakim plays works of the French Romanesque period as well as some of his own. Brilliant performance, fitting instrument, perfect sound recording. |
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Ave Regina coelorum - Marianische Orgelmusik
Ludwig Ruckdeschel plays works by different composers D, Altötting, St. Anna-Basilika Main organ by Schmid (1976-2000) 116 ranks, 86 voices (2 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Psallite, recorded 2002, 17 tracks, total time 66:05 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnichs Kurzrezension: In this excellent recording Ludwig Ruckdeschel monumentally performs monumental works on a monumental organ with two open 32' and one acoustic 64' stop as well as a high pressure division. |
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The Wanamaker Grand Court Organ
Peter Richard Conte plays works by different composers USA, Philadelphia, Lord & Taylor (Wanamaker) Store Organ by Harris (LA Organ Co.) / Fleming & Till (Wanamaker) / Quimby (1904-2004) 462 ranks, 374 voices / registers (7 x 32'), 6 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Gothic, recorded 2004, 9 tracks, total time 64:11 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Conte’s latest exhibition of genius on the newly renovated largest organ of the world – a delight to listen to, a challenge to your hifi. |
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Die neue Bach-Orgel der Thomaskirche zu Leipzig
Ullrich Böhme plays works by different composers D, Leipzig, Thomaskirche (Bachorgel) Organ by Woehl (2000) 84 ranks, 61 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: querstand, recorded 2001, 31 tracks, total time 67:38 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Irony of fate: of all churches the home church of Johann Sebastian Bach, the Thomaskirche for a long time did not have an organ on which his works could be adequately played. But since 2000 this deplorable time is over, Ullrich Böhme with many baroque works presents all the qualities of the new Woehl organ. Perfect sound recording makes it all a perfect delight. |
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Große Orgelwerke an berühmten historischen Instrumenten
Stefan-Johannes Bleicher plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach D, Weingarten, Basilika Organ by Gabler / Kuhn (1750-1983) 169 ranks, 63 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: EBS, recorded 1988, 5 tracks, total time 47:51 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Stefan-Johannes Bleicher explores with much sensitivity and subtle registration the riches of this wonderful instrument. Listening to this CD you will have an entirely new impression of Bach works. |
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Die neue Münchner Domorgel
Franz Lehrndorfer plays works by Franz Lehrndorfer D, München, Liebfrauendom Organ by Jann (1994) 193 ranks, 131 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Calig, recorded 1994, 5 tracks, total time 71:52 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Franz Lehrndorfer – one of the great improvisation artists – furnishes the début CD of the grand Munich Cathedral organ with his own improvisations – a must for any collection. |
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The Organ Works of César Franck (2 CDs)
Jean Guillou plays works by César Franck F, Paris, Saint-Eustache Organ by Van den Heuvel (1989) 147 ranks, 101 voices / registers (5 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Dorian, recorded 1989, 12 tracks, total time 74:19 (CD 1), 72:17 (CD 2) | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Jean Guillou is able to register so richly that he can get the full sound variety out of this organ – and that is a whole lot: 5 32’ stops sure are a challenge to any subwoofer. |
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Organ Spectacular
David Briggs plays works by different composers USA, Los Angeles, First Congregational Church Organ by Skinner / Schlicker / Möller / David / Zeiler (1931-1995) 354 ranks, 242 voices / registers (8 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Delos, recorded 1999, 6 tracks, total time 67:46 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: David Briggs plays monumental works on a monumental organ (presently the fourth largest organ of the world and the third largest that can be played at full extent). |
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Organ Fireworks 7
Christopher Herrick plays works by different composers ISL, Reykjavík, Hallgrímskirkja Organ by Klais (1992) 102 ranks, 72 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Hyperion, recorded 1996, 11 tracks, total time 70:07 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Christopher Herrick’s excitingly fresh, clearly accentuated and passionate interpretation of mainly Romantic works – with the organ and the sound recording perfectly matching it. |
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François Couperin (2 CDs)
Pierre Bardon plays works by François Couperin / Jean-François d'Andrieu André Raison u.a. F, Saint-Maximin en Provence, Basilique du Couvent Royal Organ by Isnard / Chéron (1772-1953) 70 ranks, 43 voices / registers, 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: Pierre Verany, recorded 198?, 60 tracks, total time 55:39 (CD 1), 59:41 (CD 2) | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The organ of Saint-Maximin in Southern France with all its chamades clearly has a definite Spanish touch to it but it is still rooted in the Baroque French sound tradition. So it is perfectly suited to Couperin’s works here exquisitely presented by Pierre Bourdon. |
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Die große Orgel im Dom zu Bamberg (2 CDs)
Markus Willinger plays works by different composers D, Bamberg, Kaiserdom Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz, Goll (1977-1998) 132 ranks, 97 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Ambiente, recorded 2002, 20 tracks, total time 74:49 (CD 1), 74:31 (CD 2) | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A musical cross-section from Renaissance to modern age, excellently interpreted on an organ that provides all you would need for this. |
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Hesch g'meint! Innerschweizer Volksmusik II1
Wolfgang Sieber und andere CH, Luzern, Hofkirche St. Leodegar Organ by Geissler / Haas / Kuhn (1650-2001) 115 ranks, 84 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ (see comment) Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: HGM, recorded 2005, 20 tracks, total time 67:49 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: You will not find a Bach, Reger, Widor or Franck on this CD. Instead it offers arrangements for organ and yodel trios, trumpet, flugelhorn and even alphorn. I guess this selection is pretty bold and absolutely unique in the world of organ CDs. It probably does not appeal too much to mainstream taste in organ music, but that is exactly the reason why I include it in my list of "hot" CDs. By the way, the recording is excellent as well. There are some more "hot" or "normal" CDs or also DVDs of the Lucerne organ available directly from Wolfgang Sieber. |
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Musik für Pipa und Orgel - Eine Begegnung
Wolfgang Sieber and Yang Jing CH, Luzern, Hofkirche St. Leodegar Organ by Geissler / Haas / Kuhn (1650-2001) 115 ranks, 84 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Dingo and Fox, recorded 2005, 7 tracks, total time 45:00 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Organ DVDs are rare. Wolfgang Sieber produced one, and it sure is a remarkable feature of organ combined with Chinese pipa, most interesting to watch and listen to. This DVD's repertoire is a survey of all kinds of musical genre, Renaissance pieces as well as old Chinese melodies up to free improvisations. Sound recording technique is excellent. You can order this DVD directly at Wolfgang Sieber. |
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Wolfgang Sieber plays Max Reger
Wolfgang Sieber and Yang Jing CH, Luzern, Hofkirche St. Leodegar Organ by Geissler / Haas / Kuhn (1650-2001) 115 ranks, 84 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: +++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: +++ |
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| Label: SMACD, recorded 1999, 15 tracks, total time 70:29 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Wolfgang Sieber doesn't only experiment on his organ, he also plays the "down-to-earth" things - and he's absolutely fantastic. I tell you, his Reger interpretation is one of the most captivating I've ever listened to. Which applies to his sound recording technique, too! There are some more CDs of the Lucerne organ available directly from Wolfgang Sieber. |
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Spiritual Movement No. 1
Barbara Dennerlein plays works by Barbara Dennerlein D, Memmingen, St. Martin Organ by Goll (1998) 83 ranks, 62 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Bebab, recorded 2002, 12 tracks, total time 78:08 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Jazz and blues improvisations on the organ – if it were only for the absolutely brilliant tracks 2, 5, 8, and 11 it would be worth to buy. Unfortunately some of the registers are slightly out of tune on this recording, apart from that the sound recording is perfect. |
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Johann Sebastian Bach im Spiegel der Romantik
Jörg Strodthoff plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach D, Berlin, Auenkirche Organ by Furtwängler & Hammer / Noeske (1897-2007) 121 ranks, 83 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 1995, 15 tracks, total time 59:49 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Bach and the Straube / Reger school – an interesting rarity, first class interpretation and sound recording. |
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Orgelkonzerte (3 CDs)
Ton Koopman / The Amserdam Baroque Orchestra plays works by Georg Friedrich Händel NL, Beek-Ubbergen, St. Bartholomeuskerk Organ by () ranks, voices / registers, ++ |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Erato, recorded 1984, 65 tracks, total time 73:08 (CD 1), 70:41 (CD 2), 63:04 (CD 3) | |||
| Dröhnich's concise comment: Handel’s organ concertos brilliantly played by Ton Koopman, the ensemble isn’t bad, either. |
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Mary Preston in Concert
Mary Preston plays works by different composers USA, Dallas, Meyerson Symphony Center Organ by Fisk (1992) 84 ranks, 60 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Gothic, recorded 2001, 10 tracks, total time 69:39 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A passionate interpretation of different gems of organ literature played on a first-rate organ. |
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Organ Fireworks 10
Christopher Herrick plays works by different composers CAN, Edmonton, Francis Winspear Center for Music Concert Hall Organ by Létourneau (2002) 122 ranks, 84 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Hyperion, recorded 2003, 19 tracks, total time 73:49 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Christopher Herrick’s excitingly fresh, clearly accentuated and passionate interpretation of mainly Romantic works – with the organ and the sound recording perfectly matching it. |
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Orgelmusik aus dem Hohen Dom zu Essen
Jürgen Kursawa plays works by different composers D, Essen, Dom Organ by Rieger (2004) 93 ranks, 67 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: + Quality of sound: +++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Unda Maris, recorded 2004, 13 tracks, total time 73:32 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The first CD of the new Essen Cathedral organ shows its quality and richness in timbres in a perfect sound recording. |
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Orgelmusik aus St. Justinus
Felix Hell plays works by different composers D, Frankfurt-Höchst, St. Justinus Organ by Kuhn (1988) 56 ranks, 43 voices / registers, 3 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: ifo, recorded 1999, 11 tracks, total time 58:74 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The then 14-year-old (!) Felix Hell who meanwhile feels at home at all great organs in the world plays in such a superior and expressive way that even honourable organ masters are eaten up with envy. |
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Organ under Glass
Peter Baicchi plays works by different composers USA, Garden Grove, Crystal Cathedral Organ by Aeolian-Skinner / Ruffatti / Diverse / Walker (1962-2002) 278 ranks, 200 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Peter Baicchi, recorded 1997, 11 tracks, total time 64:04 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: One of the world’s largest church organs (just short of the one in Passau) with a gigantic bass foundation and trumpets of all kinds, excellently presented by Peter Baicchi. |
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Orgelkonzert im Neuen Gewandhaus zu Leipzig
Michael Schönheit plays works by different composers D, Leipzig, Neues Gewandhaus Organ by Schuke (P) (1981-1987) 127 ranks, 89 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Ars Vivendi, recorded 1987, 12 tracks, total time 58:03 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A choice of wonderful organ works played on a first-rate organ, excellently interpreted, excellent sound recording – you definitely shouldn’t miss this one. |
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Romantic Organ Music, Vol. 1
Peter Hurford plays works by different composers D, Ratzeburg, Dom (Hauptorgel) Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz (1978-1994) 90 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Argo / Decca, recorded 1982, 10 tracks, total time 55:02 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Most of the popular tunes of Romantic organ music on a basically not romantic organ but played transparently and clearly accentuated – combined with a perfect recording technique that is a clear testing case for any subwoofer. |
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Romantic Organ Music, Vol. 2
Peter Hurford plays works by different composers D, Ratzeburg, Dom (Hauptorgel) Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz (1978-1994) 90 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Argo / Decca, recorded 1987, 16 tracks, total time 69:49 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Most of the popular tunes of Romantic organ music on a basically not romantic organ but played transparently and clearly accentuated – combined with a perfect recording technique that is a clear testing case for any subwoofer. |
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Organ Works Vol. 4
Ton Koopman plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach D, Hamburg, St. Jacobi (Hauptorgel) Organ by Schnitger / Ahrend (1693-1993) 98 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Teldec, recorded 1995, 12 tracks, total time 70:12 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Baroque specialist Ton Koopman plays the then freshly restored largest organ made by ancient master Arp Schnitger – reason enough to buy this one. |
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Organ Works Vol. 8
Ton Koopman plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach D, Ottobeuren, Abtei (Dreifaltigkeitsorgel) Organ by Riepp / Steinmeyer (1766-1914) 74 ranks, 49 voices / registers, 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Teldec, recorded 1998, 47 tracks, total time 69:34 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Another Bach interpretation beautifully registered by Ton Koopman, performed on one of the historically most important organs in Germany that has survived undamaged the wave of reconstruction that has been raging over the last centuries. |
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Carole Terry in Schwerin (2 CDs)
Carole Terry plays works by different composers D, Schwerin, Dom Organ by Ladegast / Schuke (P) (1871-1988) 107 ranks, 82 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Ambassador, recorded 1998, 25 tracks, total time 72:42 (CD 1), 70:40 (CD 2) | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A wonderful recording of mainly German Romantic organ works performed on an organ that couldn’t be better suited. |
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Winfried Bönig an den Orgeln im Kölner Dom
Winfried Bönig plays works by different composers D, Köln, Dom Organ by Klais (1948-2002) 197 ranks, 137 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 2002, 14 tracks, total time 79:20 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: The first concert on the reorganised organ systems at the Cologne Cathedral – the sound technician has done a magnificent job, still some works could not be played as fast as they should or else it would all have turned into one mush of sound. |
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Newberry Memorial Organ Woolsey Hall (2 CDs)
Thomas Murray plays works by different composers USA, New Haven, Yale University - Woolsey Hall Organ by Hutchings-Votey / Steere / Skinner / Thompson-Allen (1902-1996) 196 ranks, 142 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: JAV, recorded 2000, 22 tracks, total time 59:58 (CD 1), 64:12 (CD 2) | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Mainly Romantic works played on a gigantic organ that leaves nothing to be desired in the interpretation of those bombastic works. Be prepared that your living room will slightly shake. |
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Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme
Silvius von Kessel plays works by different composers D, Erfurt, Dom St. Marien Organ by Schuke (P) (1963-1992) 142 ranks, 92 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 3 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 2000, 9 tracks, total time 65:49 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Silvius von Kessel demonstates the diversity of sound of the Erfurt Cathedral organ using works of mainly German Romantic composers. Excellent sound recording. |
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Riverside '97
Timothy Smith plays works by different composers USA, New York, Riverside Church Organ by Aeolian-Skinner / Bufano / Pearson (1954-2000) 206 ranks, 148 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Pro Organo, recorded 1997, 12 tracks, total time 70:23 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Refreshing collection of organ works from different areas and eras displaying the richness of the great Riverside organ, excellent sound recording. |
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Daniel Roth spielt Bach an der Cavaillé-Coll-Orgel von Saint-Sulpice
Daniel Roth plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach F, Paris, Saint-Sulpice Organ by Clicquot / Cavaillé-Coll / Mutin / Renaud (1781-1991) 137 ranks, 102 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: + Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 1998, 12 tracks, total time 73:22 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: An unusual organ for Bach interpretations but still interesting due to Daniel Roth’s masterful play and registration. |
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Die historische Bosch-Orgel zu Santanyí (Mallorca)
Hans Dieter Möller plays works by different composers E, Santanyí, Sant Andreu Organ by Bosch / Grenzing (1762-1986) 78 ranks, 30 voices / registers, 3 manuals |
Artistic quality: + Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 1986, 8 tracks, total time 53:54 | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: This CD proudly presents a firework of Spanish trumpets. But the historic Bosch organ offers a lot of other archaic timbres as well, e.g. a kind of a Gothic blockwork. Therefore there is not only Spanish organ music on the CD but a wide variety. A very special recording! |
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Organ Fireworks 5
Christopher Herrick plays works by different composers FIN, Turku, Kathedrale Organ by Virtanen (1980-1992) 122 ranks, 81 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: ++ |
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| Label: Hyperion, recorded 1993, 14 tracks, total time 75:17 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Christopher Herrick’s excitingly fresh, clearly accentuated and passionate interpretation of mainly Romantic works – with the organ and the sound recording perfectly matching it. |
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Organ Masterworks
Franz Hauk plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach D, Ingolstadt, Liebfrauenmünster Organ by Klais (1977) 105 ranks, 69 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: ++ Quality of sound: + Overall rating: + |
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| Label: Guild, recorded 1995, 17 tracks, total time 74:45 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: Franz Hauk interprets Bach beautifully on an excellently intonated organ. There is just one disadvantage, the Ingolstadt Münster has an extremely strong echo which puts the sound technicians to a challenge. |
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Basedow - Gercke Herbst Orgel
Klaus Eichhorn plays works by different composers D, Basedow, Dorfkirche Organ by Gercke-Herbst / Schuke (P) (1683-1983) 46 ranks, 36 voices / registers, 3 manuals |
Artistic quality: + Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: + |
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| Label: Capriccio, recorded 1988, 11 tracks, total time 65:19 | __Organ details |
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: This CD presents a wonderful organ – one of the few authentic Baroque instruments in Germany. |
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Louis Vierne: 24 Fantasiestücke (2 CDs)
Bernhard Buttmann plays works by Louis Vierne D, Bochum, Ruhr-Uni Audimax Organ by Klais (1998) 120 ranks, 82 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals |
Artistic quality: + Quality of sound: ++ Overall rating: + |
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| Label: Motette, recorded 2003, 24 tracks, total time 56:51 (CD 1), 71.53 (CD 2) | __Organ details
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| Dröhnich's concise comment: A very interesting concert hall organ exactly fitting to Vierne’s works, perfect recording. |
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Remark:
In some cases the 'overall placings' do not seem to fit in with the placings in the subcategories of interpretation and sound quality –
this is due to the fact that here I included the choice of works and the "must-have-factor"as well.
