SOWERBY Music, now in its 28th year of presenting high calibre music, on this occasion welcomed organist Ben Horden, who performed in a church well filled for the occasion.
The lively young musician began his programme with In Town Tonight by Eric Coates, which had those who remembered it foot-tapping to the tune.
This hugely cheerful piece, full of joie de vivre, recalls times which seem innocent and trusting by present comparisons. It was followed by Elgar’s Allegretto and Andante moderato – richly textured in terms of volume and tone.
Bach’s Schubler Chorales BWV 645-650 opened with a familiar tuneful theme, beautifully presented by Horden, whose style is highly mobile and enthusiastic but sensitive to the demands and mood of the music. Clearly he hugely enjoys and loves his instrument.
The chorales consist of brief, richly varied movements which he demonstrated beautifully, bringing a wide range of expression and nuances to his performance.
The great music of Bach was equalled in the brilliance of the following Bolero de Concert Op. 166 by Louis Leferbure-Wely, a showy, fabulously dramatic piece, demanding all the effects the instrument could produce – with both manuals and lots of fancy footwork.
This was an outstanding performance from start to finish by an organist who will, I am sure, bring a great deal of pleasure to concert-goers who have perhaps never heard the organ played with such verve and spirit.
Horden was Organ Scholar at York Minster and has a formidable list of performances in prestigious venues to his name. In addition to solo recitals, he directs his own chamber choir, Spectrum, and is preparing for a return visit to London to perform Durufle’s Requiem at the Temple Church.
Even at this comparatively early stage of his career he is a very fine organist and will undoubtedly make a significant mark in his field.
On Saturday, October 18, Sowerby Music presents pianist Alexandra Dariescu playing Chopin, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich in St Oswald’s Church at 7.30pm.
Irene MacDonald
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