Parallels (2024)
Parallels is meticulously curated album that explores the organ’s remarkable breadth and sonority. Featuring three monumental organ works, and delightful arrangements of English classics, the collection is a testament to the grandeur and versatility of the instrument.
Parallels is not just an album; it’s a transformative auditory experience that invites listeners to explore the intersections of tradition and innovation on the Harrison and Harrison organ. The past converges with the present in perfect harmony.
This album also celebrates the 150th anniversary of Gustav Holst’s birth with the inclusion of Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity from The Planets Op. 32 arranged by Thomas Trotter.
“…the first thing to strike the listener…is Ffinch’s sheer technical facility…the blend of innovation and tradition, all rendered by that truly superior organist, make this a recording not to be missed. ”
“68 minutes of most enjoyable music...5-star recording!”
“The Cheltenham College organ sounds fine on this clever compilation of transcriptions and original organ works...this shows a fascinating progression in American writing.”
Transformations (2019)
Three major organ works: one from Liszt, one of the masters of high Romanticism and bubbling virtuosity; the powerful Heroic Sonata of Jongen and the first commercial recording of the delicately figured piece ‘The Dancing Pipes’ by Jonathan Dove, one of today’s most appreciated composers. This superb program is titled ‘Transformations’ as each piece contains musical transformations of themes; it also reflects the transformation of the fine Harrison & Harrison organ at Cheltenham College Chapel – this is its first recording since a full restoration in 2017.
“Alexander Ffinch puts Cheltenham College Chapel’s organ through its paces in fine style. Its symphonic heft is vividly felt…[he plays] with the agility of an Olympic slalom skier. ”
“This is one of the finest recordings of an organ I have heard for some time...This disc is very strongly recommended.”
“This is a richly detailed, powerfully driven and suitably extrovert performance which brings the piece dramatically to life and provides a suitably spectacular climax to a very fine recording.”