Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

As we have said before, this series is growing into an important record of the finest instruments in England, played by the best organists. It is also developing into an encyclopaedia of organ music. The 75 minutes here are an excellent example. We start with "God Save The King" arranged by the German composer Rinck. Over the course of its 13 minutes, Rinck takes the well known tune into all manner of unlikely byways. Great fun but not spiritually enlightening, which is also true of several other pieces, including a "Chaconne" by Holst and a "Shepherds' Dance" by German. However at the centre of the recital lies the work of the largest scope: "Et Resurrexit", written in 1966 by Kenneth Leighton. The title comes from the line in the Creed "and he rose again" and the work is a musical meditation on the individual's struggle for belief in the miracle of the resurrection. Resurrection is also the theme of the closing piece: "Vision Of Christ-Phoenix" by Malcolm Williamson. This spectacular work was written for the dedicatory recital of the organ in the rebuilt cathedral in 1962. Jeffcoat is an outstanding musician and this recording allows us to hear the organ in all its glory.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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