Customer Reviews

Bruce Stevens, Organist: Works by Vierne, Widor, Franck, Boely, Saint-Saens

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This is one of the most ethereally beautiful CD's ever. Stevens playing is sensitive and sensual, you can tell he really feels the music. The historical organ is magnificent and his choice of music is wonderful. If you love organ music, really beautiful organ music, you will adore this.

Bruce Stevens continues his drive to the top. On the way he is challenging the "greats" - Marie-Claire Alain, Ben van Oosten, etc. - with an approach of poetry and virtuosity. This album is a wonderful introduction to great organ music across the ages. From Bach to Mendelssohn to the French school. Two relatively unknown composers, Bruhns and Boely, are introduced. The organ at St. Mary's is not one of the towering Cavaile-Coll instruments but does cut the difference between the Symphonic and the Germanic style.

While all the abover were excellent it is Vierne's Toccata, a short work, that captures the listener. Marie-Claire Alain once described this incredible work as "Vierne baring his troubled soul" and a more apt description could not be found. It is frenetic with a pent-up explosive energy that keeps breaking through the waves of chromaticism. Stevens rendition startles the listener with an intensity rarely displayed. A great album for all music lovers.