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Review
It is always interesting to hear an instrument by T. C Lewis, and this recording gives further proof of the versatility and musicality of his instruments. However, all is not quite straightforward. First of all we are informed that "for the purpose of this recording the organ has been acoustically enhanced" - to what effect you can judge in the first few seconds of BWV565 where the decay sounds (to my ears) decidedly fake. Secondly, this 1869 instrument in the church of St Mary's Beddington, Surrey (three manuals, 32 stops) had been 'restored' in 1992 by the firm of Henry Willis and Sons, and now boasts a plethora of playing aids, making possible a kaleidoscope of colour, aided and abetted, I suspect. by additional octave and sub-octave couplers.
Andrew Wilson exploits the possibilities to the full in a rich and varied programme. His playing is musical and full of character. He is not constrained by stylistic considerations in the earlier repertoire, so that the Bach Toccata is displayed on a sound canvas of wide dynamics range and has articulation which at times simply sounds added to the music rather than growing out of it. Similarly, the arrangement of the Jeremiah Clarke shows a free approach to the harmonisation, as well as a solo reed which does not always speak properly.
The more 'romantic' items seem to suit Mr Wilson's full-blooded style more naturally. There is certainly a great deal to enjoy and the very occasional blemishes do little to detract from the verve with which the music is presented.
Not playing for the purist perhaps. but many organ enthusiasts will derive great pleasure and excitement from this disc.
Timothy Hone
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