Although organ recordings are commonly regarded as staunchly specialist territory, this is one whose well-chosen program and engaging variety of instruments will prove immediately appealing and accessible to just about any listener with even a casual interest in organ music. The idea here is to present a sampling of the splendid instrumental and musical heritage that’s still embodied in the centuries-old, carefully maintained organs in village churches in the region of central Germany known as Thuringia (notable as the birthplace of J.S. Bach). Four organs–from Untergneus, Friedelshausen, Wohlmuthausen, and Gräfenhain–were selected to highlight the high level of sophistication and craftsmanship that exemplified organ-building in this region of Europe during the 18th century.
Organist Sebastian Knebel not only is a terrific musician–he shows exceptional taste and imagination in his registrations and he seems to find a way to exploit each instrument’s “personality” to maximum effect–but he also is trained in organ building and is a leading advocate of historic organ preservation. The repertoire is a fine mix of big pieces–J.S. Bach’s O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig BWV 656a and Prelude & Fugue in C minor BWV 549; Pachelbel’s Ciacona in F minor–and smaller gems such as Nicolaus Vetter’s set of short preludes and fugues titled Parthie ex B, Johann Buttstett’s deliciously spicy Fugue in E minor, and Pachelbel’s Fantasia in G minor.
Knebel and Raumklang’s recording team are very successful in bringing us a realistic sense of venue and of the unique sound of these old but beautifully conditioned organs. Yes, there’s some clacking and wheezing here and there, but it’s not at all bothersome–and we have to accept it as an unavoidable artifact of these precious instruments’ mechanics. One delightful touch is Knebel’s use of the Untergneus organ’s quaint and colorful “Stern” stop–a star-like wheel with bells attached that rotates when activated, causing a continuous tinkling sound. It’s a perfect addition to Bach’s setting of In dulci jubilo BWV 751. Completing the package is Knebel’s informative liner notes, including specifications and pictures of each organ.
