Description
We are delighted to present the first recording devoted to the solo organ works by Andrew Downes. Downes’ organ works are characterised by their sense of space, sinuous melodic line and symphonic use of the organ which is depicted here by the expert playing of Robin Walker on the organ of Ely Cathedral.
Track List
1
Prelude: The Forest at Dawn, Op. 78(a) (2000)
6:59
Prelude, Fanfare, and Postlude for Organ, Op. 9 (1975)
Introduction and Allegro for Solo Organ, Op. 94 (2007)
Sonata for Organ, Op. 92 (2006)
8
Movement II: Allegro Vivace
4:58
9
Movement III: Andante
5:58
Total Playing time: 49:22
Production credits
Recorded 27–28 October 2020 in Ely Cathedral by permission of the Chapter
Recording engineer and producer: Myles Eastwood www.eastwoodrecords.co.uk
Reviews
‘This first CD of organ music by Birmingham-born Andrew Downes (who turned 70 in 2020) reveals a voice rooted in and relishing the instruments cavernous lower registers, coupled with a facility for spinning light and shade out of their dark, subterranean hues. The early Prelude, Fanfare and Prelude op.9 (1975) shows Downes equally eloquent in its effusive middle section. But it’s his dexterous way with evoking moment and mood, as in the splendidly ruminative Sonata (2006) and the imagistic The Forest at Dawn (2000), that catches the ear. So, too, his daring use of ambiguous harmonies as a prelude to the magnificent bombast that concludes the Introduction and Allegro op.94 (2017).’ ★★★★ Choir and Organ April 2022
‘Always engaging, always tonal — if chromatic – idyllic and pastoral, but at times more biting… The magnificent organ of Ely Cathedral (IV/80, Harrison & Harrison 1908, 1975 and 2001) and the immense building undeniably serve to enhance the intended effect of this thoughtful, spacious music. Robin Walker gives committed and thus compelling performances.’ Organists’ Review March 2022
Walker plays with technical assurance and musical commitment on the 4-manual, 71- stop 1908 (restored 1999–2001) Harrison and Harrison organ in Ely Cathedral. The recorded sound is very clear. ’ American Record Guide, May/June 2022
‘Accessible and eloquent, the organ music of Andrew Downes has the breadth and reach of a natural symphonist. Darker, probing elements lurk beneath its open-hearted, directly communicative surface and it is measure of the composer’s detailed and honest approach to his craft that all four featured works make a deep and lasting impact. Robin Walker is an ideal advocate, alert and responsive and he brings a powerfully creative and poetic approach to the scores. The glories of the organ and acoustic of Ely Cathedral are evident throughout this beautifully recorded disc, which is highly recommended.’ ★★★★★ The Organ Summer 2022
‘The versatility of organist, conductor and teacher Robin Walker has done a signal service in bringing this evocative repertoire, and the tradition it represents, before wider public notice. The quality of the informative inlay book, with informed and helpful contributions by Duncan Honeybourne as well as some from the composer and player, is a real delight, visually as well as aurally.’ Cathedral Music 1/ 2022
‘…an interesting and worthwhile recital of music celebrating a little-known composer, which is performed with enthusiasm and respect by an excellent organist. ’ Church Music Quarterly March 2022
