WITH all the majestic power available from pipe organs, Stephen Binnington, currently Director of Farrington Music School near Shaftesbury had clearly decided to capitalize upon the instrument’s more intimate qualities for some of his programme.
His talent to hold his audience in rapt attention through a number of pieces that echoed the contemplative ambience of this venue was not only a tribute to some florid fingerwork, but also a choice of music that was often far from run-of-the-mill.
A prime example here was Scherzo by Albert Alain (father of several prominent organists), and judging only by this work, a master at captivating charm; exuding exquisite Mendelssohnian filigree.
The ‘local composer’ theme of these Saturday afternoon recitals continued with a Chorale Prelude, Melcombe, by Parry and two Hymn Preludes by Whitlock that included the impressive “Darwall’s 148th”. (Ye Holy Angels Bright).
A short, enjoyable Intrada by Binnington’s tutor Alan Spedding opened this recital and along with some works by the ‘greats’; Buxtehude, Bach, his brilliant digit-dancing Piece d’Orgue (BWV 572) and Vierne-the wonderful Carillon de Westminster-and Dubois.The seldom heard English composer J. Frederick Bridge’s Sonata proved highly imaginative, utilizing a wide range of stops and finishing with a formidable Introduction and Fugue.
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