For anyone who associates organ music with the solemnity of royal occasions broadcast on TV then this concert would be a real eye-opener.
For Timothy Raymond, director of music at Bolton Abbey Priory Church, demonstrated beyond all doubt that the organ is an elaborate box of tricks capable of all manner of special effects. The programme featured works from the 70s and 80s, the twist being that this included not only the 1970s, but also the 1570s and 1670s.
This changing perspective meant a wide range of styles could be explored, and so alongside music that would have been current while Shakespeare was growing up we were able to listen to early baroque style music in vogue at the restoration court of Charles II and a piece heavily influenced by the space race of the 1960s.
What cannot be underestimated is the skill and range of the organist. In a stunning performance in difficult conditions it was clear that here was a talented musician at the height of his powers. All in all the stark contrasts in the programme meant this was very much a voyage of discovery and an opportunity for exploration.
Gill O’Donnell
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