Our chamber organ was first revealed to the public at the Manchester Conference of Diocesan Organ Advisors in August 2018. I could not go but perhaps given the controversial nature of our technology may not have been enthusiastically received. By all accounts the instrument was reasonably well regarded. Could one ever get a ‘pipecentric’ gathering to be truly enthusiastic about loudspeakers? I rather doubt it.
The Chamber Organ in a continuo role
So it is with interest that I wait for feedback on the instruments first serious outing with the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra in a continuo role for a performance of Handel’s Messiah at the Sheldonian Theatre on December 13th 2018.
We delivered the instrument at about 1.45pm for a rehearsal starting at 2.00pm. Already in place was the harpsichord (a real one provided by Simon Neal) who had already spent considerable time tuning and would have to return again after rehearsal for another tuning session before the performance.
Interestingly he had dismissed the option of including chamber organs in his instrument offerings as he considered their tuning requirements just too arduous. So, our ‘electronic’ offering may well have an even bigger time saving in use than we had already contemplated. But of course, the acid test is at what compromise to sound and touch compared to a real windblown alternative.
I was not able to stay for the performance so will have to wait for feedback from others for their thoughts on the instrument’s effectiveness in Messiah. Certainly, delivery and set up was a great success. Artistically we wait to hear.
Perhaps you were there. If so do let us know what you thought?
Find out more about our Chamber Organs and/or how to Hire one for an event.
I have had a passion for church organs since the tender age of 12. I own and run Regent Classic Organs with a close attention to the detail that musicians appreciate; and a clear understanding of the benefits of digital technology and keeping to the traditional and emotional elements of organ playing.
