In keeping with the historic nature of the Temple Church, the first mention of an organ there dates back to 1308 – although the organ on this recording, made by Harrison & Harrison, dates from 1954 (after the previous organ was destroyed during the blitz in 1941).
The varied programme touches on a multitude of works for organ by English composers, all of which bring out different facets of this versatile instrument. The organist, James Vivian, has been part of the music department at the Temple Church since 1997, working first with the then director of music Stephen Layton before taking on the role himself in 2006.
Including works by Percy Whitlock, Henry Walford Davies, John Stanley, Samuel Sebastian Wesley, Frank Bridge, Basil Harwood, Francis Jackson and Herbert Howells.
We have had many fine recordings over the years from the Temple Church and it is pleasing to find these new releases up to the same high standards … a well balanced collection which will repay careful listening – The Organ
A fine London organ put to good use in a masterful recital … The recorded sound is absolutely first-rate. I loved this disc – Gramophone
The instrument is a natural match for English romantic and post-romantic composition … Vivian’s performance is nothing short of spectacular – American Record Guide
