Great Organ CDs - Dröhnich's latest recommendations


These are my organ CD highlights - those CDs are perfect in everything, quality of the instrument, of the recording and of the interpretation, just simply the "hottest".
Please note: click on the CD cover for a larger picture with complete CD track list, click on the 'detail' button to the right for organ specifications.

On this site you can also order CDs online or download organ music as MP3 files: for CDs click here / for MP3s click here


Spiritual Movement No. 2

Barbara Dennerlein plays jazz and blues works and improvisations on a pipe organ
D, Berlin, Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche
Organ by Karl Schuke (1962)
99 ranks, 63 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Bebab, recorded 2008, 8 tracks, total time: 70:13 __Organ details
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Dröhnich's concise comment:
It is incredible what Barbara Dennerlein - who normally plays the Hammond B3 - is able to perform on a big tracker action pipe organ. This CD
is a must-have even for those who are not that much into jazz. I attended this concert in November 2007, I tell you, it is an authentic live recording!


Die Eule-Orgel der Kathedrale St. Sebastian zu Magdeburg

Improvisations by Matthias Mück and Otto Maria Krämer around the church year
D, Magdeburg, Kathedrale St. Sebastian
Organ by Eule (2005)
73 ranks, 56 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 3 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Unda Maris, recorded 2005, 25 tracks, total time: 79:52 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Matthias Mück and Otto Maria Krämer present lively and imaginative improvisations with an "Owl' Time Rag" as a great finale on the Eule (German: owl) organ. In my opinion this organ is among those organs recently built with the most beautiful sound.


Musica Mystica - Gregorianik im Dialog

Andreas Sieling and the Berliner Domkantorei, conducted by Tobias Brommann, interpret works by Charles Tournemire
D, Berlin, Dom
Organ by Sauer (1905)
133 ranks, 112 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: DG, recorded 2008, 20 tracks, total time: 79:05 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
You might wonder why a French late Romantic composer is played on a typically German orchestral organ: the Berlin Cathedral organ with its stoplist rich in fundamental is indeed very much suited for the presentation of the mystical works of Tournemire. Listen and immerse yourself in the music.


The Goldberg Variations

Jean Guillou plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
F, Alpe d'Huez, Notre-Dame-des-Neiges
Organ by Kleuker (1978)
37 ranks, 24 voices / registers, 2 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Dorian, recorded 1987, 32 tracks, total time 53:59 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Fantastic transcription for the organ – very accentuated performance, excellently registrated plus - a perfect recording technique.


Organ Works

Peter Hurford plays works by Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy
D, Ratzeburg, Dom (Hauptorgel)
Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz (1978-1994)
90 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Argo / Decca, recorded 1986, 11 tracks, total time 57:55 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
The best Mendelssohn interpretation there is on an organ: fresh and accentuated performance and perfect sound quality.


Let's go to the Opera!

Thomas Heywood plays works by different composers
USA, Galveston, Moody Memorial First United Methodist Church
Organ by Schantz (1998)
117 ranks, 88 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Pro Organo, recorded 2003, 13 tracks, total time 75:19 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Excellent transcription, meticulous and refreshing performance by Thomas Heywood. Excellent sound recording.


Who needs an Orchestra!

Thomas Heywood plays works by different composers
AUS, Melbourne, Town Hall
Organ by Hill / Norman & Beard / Ingram / Schantz (1872-2001)
149 ranks, 116 voices / registers (6 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Pro Organo, recorded 2001, 10 tracks, total time 74:23 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Once again Thomas Heywood, this time in his home town on the newly restored large concert organ of Melbourne Town Hall. Superb transcriptions and sound quality.


Dancing Pipes

Hans Uwe Hielscher plays works by different composers
D, Wiesbaden, Ev. Marktkirche
Organ by Walcker / Sauer / Oberlinger (1863-1982)
122 ranks, 85 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: ifo, recorded 2000, 17 tracks, total time 72:30 __Organ details
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Dröhnich's concise comment:
Just simply fantastic: Hans-Uwe Hielscher plays transcriptions of well-known classic works, many of which he transcribed himself.


Calvary Grand Organ Dedication

Dan Miller plays works by different composers
USA, Charlotte, Calvary Church
Organ by Möller (1990)
205 ranks, 133 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Dan Miller, recorded 1990, 9 tracks, total time 67:43 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A set of fireworks with well-known compositions (mainly transcriptions) - played with a refreshing genius and colorfully registered by Dan Miller on the massive Calvary organ. This is an excellent demo CD telling you how much there can be in sound variety to a great organ as well as to a great hifi set. This CD can be ordered directly from Dan Miller.


The Power and the Glory

Dan Miller plays works by different composers
USA, Charlotte, Calvary Church
Organ by Möller (1990)
205 ranks, 133 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Dan Miller, recorded 1994, 16 tracks, total time 65:44 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Another miracle in interpretation and sound: Dan Miller playing on the huge Calvary organ, one of the last organs built by the great American organbuilding company Möller. This CD can be ordered directly from Dan Miller.


Sounds Spectacular

Thomas Trotter plays works by different composers
GB, Birmingham, Symphony Hall
Organ by Klais (2002)
104 ranks, 82 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: SH, recorded 2003, 16 tracks, total time 70:28 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A musical survey of the centuries – period interpretation masterfully performed on the excellent and versatile Klais organ.


Ludger Mai spielt virtuose Orgelmusik

Ludger Mai plays works by different composers
D, Berlin, St. Matthias
Organ by Seifert / Stockmann (1958-1993)
109 ranks, 74 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: o
Overall rating: +++
Label: Motette, recorded 197?, 10 tracks, total time 39:47 __Organ details
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Dröhnich's concise comment:
Ludger Mai plays French romanticists with breathtaking virtuosity – this perfectly makes up for the slightly imperfect sound recording of the 70’s (I have often played this organ myself, it has much more pressure in the basses and less sharp trebles).


Das Orgelwerk (2 CDs)

Hans Davidsson plays works by Matthias Weckmann
D, Norden, St. Ludgeri
Organ by De Mare / Evers / Schnitger / Ahrend (1567-1985)
77 ranks, 46 voices / registers, 3 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Motette, recorded 1990, 44 tracks, total time 77:35 (CD 1), 78:16 (CD 2) __Organ details
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Dröhnich's concise comment:
Incredibly rich performance of early baroque music. This is by far the best Weckmann recording I know. Exactly the right organ, excellent sound recording.


Dom zu Passau

Edgar Krapp plays works by different composers
D, Passau, Dom St. Stephan
Organ by Steinmeyer / Eisenbarth (1928-1981)
327 ranks, 229 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Eurodisc, recorded 1983, 8 tracks, total time 59:10 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A very good musical sampler, excellently interpreted and recorded on the world’s (then) largest church organ.


Die Passauer Domorgel

Helga Schauerte plays works by different composers
D, Passau, Dom St. Stephan
Organ by Steinmeyer / Eisenbarth (1928-1981)
327 ranks, 229 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Syrius, recorded 1995, 15 tracks, total time 76:01 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
With some very impressive works Helga Schauerte presents the power of the world’s (then) largest church organ.


Klavierwerke J.S. Bachs für die Orgel bearbeitet von Max Reger

Irénée Peyrot plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
D, Gelsenkirchen, Hans-Sachs-Haus Konzertsaal
Organ by Walcker / Seifert (1927-2007)
135 ranks, 89 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: organ, recorded 2000, 21 tracks, total time 75:09 __Organ details
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Dröhnich's concise comment:
The last recording on the Hans-Sachs-Haus concert organ that is presently turned in for restoration - a very good Bach interpretation.


Pictures at an exhibition

Jean Guillou plays works by Modest Mussorgski / Igor Stravinski / Jean Guillou
CH, Zürich, Tonhalle
Organ by Steinmeyer / Kleuker (1965-1988)
103 ranks, 68 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Dorian, recorded 1989, 18 tracks, total time 53:03 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A first-rate musical, sound and registration firework, set in scene by Dorian’s typically perfect sound recording.


Great European Organs, No. 10

Keith John plays works by Modest Mussorgski / Jehan Alain / Keith John
CH, Zürich, Tonhalle
Organ by Steinmeyer / Kleuker (1965-1988)
103 ranks, 68 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Priory, recorded 1988, 19 tracks, total time 56:36 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
It isn’t only Jean Guillou standing for remarkable interpretations and registrations! Keith John’s version of ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ is first-rate, too.


Guilmant - Widor - Franck

Ian Tracey / BBC Philharmonic / Yan Pascal Tortelier plays works by Félix Alexandre Guilmant / Charles Marie Widor / César Franck
GB, Liverpool, Anglican Cathedral
Organ by Willis / Harrison & Harrison / Wells (1926-2000)
184 ranks, 145 voices / registers (6 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Chandos, recorded 2000, 8 tracks, total time 71:37 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
The largest British organ with its huge bass foundation together with the BBC orchestra. Especially the Guilmant part is absolutely exceptional in interpretation as well as sound.


L'Orgue Georg Stahlhuth, Saint-Martin Dudelange

Naji Hakim plays works by different composers
LUX, Dudelange, Saint-Martin
Organ by Stahlhuth / Jann (1912-2002)
88 ranks, 72 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Aeolus, recorded 2002, 8 tracks, total time 73:20 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Naji Hakim plays works of the French Romanesque period as well as some of his own. Brilliant performance, fitting instrument, perfect sound recording.


Ave Regina coelorum - Marianische Orgelmusik

Ludwig Ruckdeschel plays works by different composers
D, Altötting, St. Anna-Basilika
Main organ by Schmid (1976-2000)
116 ranks, 86 voices (2 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Psallite, recorded 2002, 17 tracks, total time 66:05 __Organ details
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Dröhnichs Kurzrezension:
In this excellent recording Ludwig Ruckdeschel monumentally performs monumental works on a monumental organ with two open 32' and one acoustic 64' stop as well as a high pressure division.


The Wanamaker Grand Court Organ

Peter Richard Conte plays works by different composers
USA, Philadelphia, Lord & Taylor (Wanamaker) Store
Organ by Harris (LA Organ Co.) / Fleming & Till (Wanamaker) / Quimby (1904-2004)
462 ranks, 374 voices / registers (7 x 32'), 6 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Gothic, recorded 2004, 9 tracks, total time 64:11 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Conte’s latest exhibition of genius on the newly renovated largest organ of the world – a delight to listen to, a challenge to your hifi.


Die neue Bach-Orgel der Thomaskirche zu Leipzig

Ullrich Böhme plays works by different composers
D, Leipzig, Thomaskirche (Bachorgel)
Organ by Woehl (2000)
84 ranks, 61 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: querstand, recorded 2001, 31 tracks, total time 67:38 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Irony of fate: of all churches the home church of Johann Sebastian Bach, the Thomaskirche for a long time did not have an organ on which his works could be adequately played. But since 2000 this deplorable time is over, Ullrich Böhme with many baroque works presents all the qualities of the new Woehl organ. Perfect sound recording makes it all a perfect delight.


Große Orgelwerke an berühmten historischen Instrumenten

Stefan-Johannes Bleicher plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
D, Weingarten, Basilika
Organ by Gabler / Kuhn (1750-1983)
169 ranks, 63 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: EBS, recorded 1988, 5 tracks, total time 47:51 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Stefan-Johannes Bleicher explores with much sensitivity and subtle registration the riches of this wonderful instrument. Listening to this CD you will have an entirely new impression of Bach works.


Die neue Münchner Domorgel

Franz Lehrndorfer plays works by Franz Lehrndorfer
D, München, Liebfrauendom
Organ by Jann (1994)
193 ranks, 131 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Calig, recorded 1994, 5 tracks, total time 71:52 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Franz Lehrndorfer – one of the great improvisation artists – furnishes the début CD of the grand Munich Cathedral organ with his own improvisations – a must for any collection.


The Organ Works of César Franck (2 CDs)

Jean Guillou plays works by César Franck
F, Paris, Saint-Eustache
Organ by Van den Heuvel (1989)
147 ranks, 101 voices / registers (5 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Dorian, recorded 1989, 12 tracks, total time 74:19 (CD 1), 72:17 (CD 2) __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Jean Guillou is able to register so richly that he can get the full sound variety out of this organ – and that is a whole lot: 5 32’ stops sure are a challenge to any subwoofer.


Organ Spectacular

David Briggs plays works by different composers
USA, Los Angeles, First Congregational Church
Organ by Skinner / Schlicker / Möller / David / Zeiler (1931-1995)
354 ranks, 242 voices / registers (8 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Delos, recorded 1999, 6 tracks, total time 67:46 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
David Briggs plays monumental works on a monumental organ (presently the fourth largest organ of the world and the third largest that can be played at full extent).


Organ Fireworks 7

Christopher Herrick plays works by different composers
ISL, Reykjavík, Hallgrímskirkja
Organ by Klais (1992)
102 ranks, 72 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Hyperion, recorded 1996, 11 tracks, total time 70:07 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Christopher Herrick’s excitingly fresh, clearly accentuated and passionate interpretation of mainly Romantic works – with the organ and the sound recording perfectly matching it.


François Couperin (2 CDs)

Pierre Bardon plays works by François Couperin / Jean-François d'Andrieu André Raison u.a.
F, Saint-Maximin en Provence, Basilique du Couvent Royal
Organ by Isnard / Chéron (1772-1953)
70 ranks, 43 voices / registers, 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: Pierre Verany, recorded 198?, 60 tracks, total time 55:39 (CD 1), 59:41 (CD 2) __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
The organ of Saint-Maximin in Southern France with all its chamades clearly has a definite Spanish touch to it but it is still rooted in the Baroque French sound tradition. So it is perfectly suited to Couperin’s works here exquisitely presented by Pierre Bourdon.


Die große Orgel im Dom zu Bamberg (2 CDs)

Markus Willinger plays works by different composers
D, Bamberg, Kaiserdom
Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz, Goll (1977-1998)
132 ranks, 97 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Ambiente, recorded 2002, 20 tracks, total time 74:49 (CD 1), 74:31 (CD 2) __Organ details


Dröhnich's concise comment:
A musical cross-section from Renaissance to modern age, excellently interpreted on an organ that provides all you would need for this.


Hesch g'meint! Innerschweizer Volksmusik II1

Wolfgang Sieber und andere
CH, Luzern, Hofkirche St. Leodegar
Organ by Geissler / Haas / Kuhn (1650-2001)
115 ranks, 84 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
(see comment)
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: HGM, recorded 2005, 20 tracks, total time 67:49 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
You will not find a Bach, Reger, Widor or Franck on this CD. Instead it offers arrangements for organ and yodel trios, trumpet, flugelhorn and even alphorn.
I guess this selection is pretty bold and absolutely unique in the world of organ CDs. It probably does not appeal too much to mainstream taste in organ music, but that is exactly the reason why I include it in my list of "hot" CDs. By the way, the recording is excellent as well. There are some more "hot" or "normal" CDs or also DVDs of the Lucerne organ available directly from Wolfgang Sieber.


Musik für Pipa und Orgel - Eine Begegnung

Wolfgang Sieber and Yang Jing
CH, Luzern, Hofkirche St. Leodegar
Organ by Geissler / Haas / Kuhn (1650-2001)
115 ranks, 84 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Dingo and Fox, recorded 2005, 7 tracks, total time 45:00 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Organ DVDs are rare. Wolfgang Sieber produced one, and it sure is a remarkable feature of organ combined with Chinese pipa, most interesting to watch and listen to. This DVD's repertoire is a survey of all kinds of musical genre, Renaissance pieces as well as old Chinese melodies up to free improvisations. Sound recording technique is excellent. You can order this DVD directly at Wolfgang Sieber.


Wolfgang Sieber plays Max Reger

Wolfgang Sieber and Yang Jing
CH, Luzern, Hofkirche St. Leodegar
Organ by Geissler / Haas / Kuhn (1650-2001)
115 ranks, 84 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: +++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +++
Label: SMACD, recorded 1999, 15 tracks, total time 70:29 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Wolfgang Sieber doesn't only experiment on his organ, he also plays the "down-to-earth" things - and he's absolutely fantastic. I tell you, his Reger interpretation is one of the most captivating I've ever listened to. Which applies to his sound recording technique, too! There are some more CDs of the Lucerne organ available directly from Wolfgang Sieber.


Spiritual Movement No. 1

Barbara Dennerlein plays works by Barbara Dennerlein
D, Memmingen, St. Martin
Organ by Goll (1998)
83 ranks, 62 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Bebab, recorded 2002, 12 tracks, total time 78:08 __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Jazz and blues improvisations on the organ – if it were only for the absolutely brilliant tracks 2, 5, 8, and 11 it would be worth to buy. Unfortunately some of the registers are slightly out of tune on this recording, apart from that the sound recording is perfect.


Johann Sebastian Bach im Spiegel der Romantik

Jörg Strodthoff plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
D, Berlin, Auenkirche
Organ by Furtwängler & Hammer / Noeske (1897-2007)
121 ranks, 83 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Motette, recorded 1995, 15 tracks, total time 59:49 __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Bach and the Straube / Reger school – an interesting rarity, first class interpretation and sound recording.


Orgelkonzerte (3 CDs)

Ton Koopman / The Amserdam Baroque Orchestra plays works by Georg Friedrich Händel
NL, Beek-Ubbergen, St. Bartholomeuskerk
Organ by ()
ranks, voices / registers, ++
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Erato, recorded 1984, 65 tracks, total time 73:08 (CD 1), 70:41 (CD 2), 63:04 (CD 3)
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Handel’s organ concertos brilliantly played by Ton Koopman, the ensemble isn’t bad, either.


Mary Preston in Concert

Mary Preston plays works by different composers
USA, Dallas, Meyerson Symphony Center
Organ by Fisk (1992)
84 ranks, 60 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Gothic, recorded 2001, 10 tracks, total time 69:39 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A passionate interpretation of different gems of organ literature played on a first-rate organ.


Organ Fireworks 10

Christopher Herrick plays works by different composers
CAN, Edmonton, Francis Winspear Center for Music Concert Hall
Organ by Létourneau (2002)
122 ranks, 84 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Hyperion, recorded 2003, 19 tracks, total time 73:49 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Christopher Herrick’s excitingly fresh, clearly accentuated and passionate interpretation of mainly Romantic works – with the organ and the sound recording perfectly matching it.


Orgelmusik aus dem Hohen Dom zu Essen

Jürgen Kursawa plays works by different composers
D, Essen, Dom
Organ by Rieger (2004)
93 ranks, 67 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +
Quality of sound: +++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Unda Maris, recorded 2004, 13 tracks, total time 73:32 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
The first CD of the new Essen Cathedral organ shows its quality and richness in timbres in a perfect sound recording.


Orgelmusik aus St. Justinus

Felix Hell plays works by different composers
D, Frankfurt-Höchst, St. Justinus
Organ by Kuhn (1988)
56 ranks, 43 voices / registers, 3 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: ifo, recorded 1999, 11 tracks, total time 58:74 __Organ details
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Dröhnich's concise comment:
The then 14-year-old (!) Felix Hell who meanwhile feels at home at all great organs in the world plays in such a superior and expressive way that even honourable organ masters are eaten up with envy.


Organ under Glass

Peter Baicchi plays works by different composers
USA, Garden Grove, Crystal Cathedral
Organ by Aeolian-Skinner / Ruffatti / Diverse / Walker (1962-2002)
278 ranks, 200 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Peter Baicchi, recorded 1997, 11 tracks, total time 64:04 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
One of the world’s largest church organs (just short of the one in Passau) with a gigantic bass foundation and trumpets of all kinds, excellently presented by Peter Baicchi.


Orgelkonzert im Neuen Gewandhaus zu Leipzig

Michael Schönheit plays works by different composers
D, Leipzig, Neues Gewandhaus
Organ by Schuke (P) (1981-1987)
127 ranks, 89 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Ars Vivendi, recorded 1987, 12 tracks, total time 58:03 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A choice of wonderful organ works played on a first-rate organ, excellently interpreted, excellent sound recording – you definitely shouldn’t miss this one.


Romantic Organ Music, Vol. 1

Peter Hurford plays works by different composers
D, Ratzeburg, Dom (Hauptorgel)
Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz (1978-1994)
90 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Argo / Decca, recorded 1982, 10 tracks, total time 55:02 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Most of the popular tunes of Romantic organ music on a basically not romantic organ but played transparently and clearly accentuated – combined with a perfect recording technique that is a clear testing case for any subwoofer.


Romantic Organ Music, Vol. 2

Peter Hurford plays works by different composers
D, Ratzeburg, Dom (Hauptorgel)
Organ by Rieger / Glatter-Götz (1978-1994)
90 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Argo / Decca, recorded 1987, 16 tracks, total time 69:49 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Most of the popular tunes of Romantic organ music on a basically not romantic organ but played transparently and clearly accentuated – combined with a perfect recording technique that is a clear testing case for any subwoofer.


Organ Works Vol. 4

Ton Koopman plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
D, Hamburg, St. Jacobi (Hauptorgel)
Organ by Schnitger / Ahrend (1693-1993)
98 ranks, 60 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Teldec, recorded 1995, 12 tracks, total time 70:12 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Baroque specialist Ton Koopman plays the then freshly restored largest organ made by ancient master Arp Schnitger – reason enough to buy this one.


Organ Works Vol. 8

Ton Koopman plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
D, Ottobeuren, Abtei (Dreifaltigkeitsorgel)
Organ by Riepp / Steinmeyer (1766-1914)
74 ranks, 49 voices / registers, 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Teldec, recorded 1998, 47 tracks, total time 69:34 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Another Bach interpretation beautifully registered by Ton Koopman, performed on one of the historically most important organs in Germany that has survived undamaged the wave of reconstruction that has been raging over the last centuries.


Carole Terry in Schwerin (2 CDs)

Carole Terry plays works by different composers
D, Schwerin, Dom
Organ by Ladegast / Schuke (P) (1871-1988)
107 ranks, 82 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Ambassador, recorded 1998, 25 tracks, total time 72:42 (CD 1), 70:40 (CD 2) __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A wonderful recording of mainly German Romantic organ works performed on an organ that couldn’t be better suited.


Winfried Bönig an den Orgeln im Kölner Dom

Winfried Bönig plays works by different composers
D, Köln, Dom
Organ by Klais (1948-2002)
197 ranks, 137 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Motette, recorded 2002, 14 tracks, total time 79:20 __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
The first concert on the reorganised organ systems at the Cologne Cathedral – the sound technician has done a magnificent job, still some works could not be played as fast as they should or else it would all have turned into one mush of sound.


Newberry Memorial Organ Woolsey Hall (2 CDs)

Thomas Murray plays works by different composers
USA, New Haven, Yale University - Woolsey Hall
Organ by Hutchings-Votey / Steere / Skinner / Thompson-Allen (1902-1996)
196 ranks, 142 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: JAV, recorded 2000, 22 tracks, total time 59:58 (CD 1), 64:12 (CD 2) __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Mainly Romantic works played on a gigantic organ that leaves nothing to be desired in the interpretation of those bombastic works. Be prepared that your living room will slightly shake.


Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme

Silvius von Kessel plays works by different composers
D, Erfurt, Dom St. Marien
Organ by Schuke (P) (1963-1992)
142 ranks, 92 voices / registers (1 x 32'), 3 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Motette, recorded 2000, 9 tracks, total time 65:49 __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Silvius von Kessel demonstates the diversity of sound of the Erfurt Cathedral organ using works of mainly German Romantic composers. Excellent sound recording.


Riverside '97

Timothy Smith plays works by different composers
USA, New York, Riverside Church
Organ by Aeolian-Skinner / Bufano / Pearson (1954-2000)
206 ranks, 148 voices / registers (4 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Pro Organo, recorded 1997, 12 tracks, total time 70:23 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Refreshing collection of organ works from different areas and eras displaying the richness of the great Riverside organ, excellent sound recording.


Daniel Roth spielt Bach an der Cavaillé-Coll-Orgel von Saint-Sulpice

Daniel Roth plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
F, Paris, Saint-Sulpice
Organ by Clicquot / Cavaillé-Coll / Mutin / Renaud (1781-1991)
137 ranks, 102 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 5 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +
Overall rating: ++
Label: Motette, recorded 1998, 12 tracks, total time 73:22 __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
An unusual organ for Bach interpretations but still interesting due to Daniel Roth’s masterful play and registration.


Die historische Bosch-Orgel zu Santanyí (Mallorca)

Hans Dieter Möller plays works by different composers
E, Santanyí, Sant Andreu
Organ by Bosch / Grenzing (1762-1986)
78 ranks, 30 voices / registers, 3 manuals
Artistic quality: +
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Motette, recorded 1986, 8 tracks, total time 53:54 __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
This CD proudly presents a firework of Spanish trumpets. But the historic Bosch organ offers a lot of other archaic timbres as well, e.g. a kind of a Gothic blockwork. Therefore there is not only Spanish organ music on the CD but a wide variety. A very special recording!


Organ Fireworks 5

Christopher Herrick plays works by different composers
FIN, Turku, Kathedrale
Organ by Virtanen (1980-1992)
122 ranks, 81 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: ++
Label: Hyperion, recorded 1993, 14 tracks, total time 75:17 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Christopher Herrick’s excitingly fresh, clearly accentuated and passionate interpretation of mainly Romantic works – with the organ and the sound recording perfectly matching it.


Organ Masterworks

Franz Hauk plays works by Johann Sebastian Bach
D, Ingolstadt, Liebfrauenmünster
Organ by Klais (1977)
105 ranks, 69 voices / registers (2 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: ++
Quality of sound: +
Overall rating: +
Label: Guild, recorded 1995, 17 tracks, total time 74:45 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
Franz Hauk interprets Bach beautifully on an excellently intonated organ. There is just one disadvantage, the Ingolstadt Münster has an extremely strong echo which puts the sound technicians to a challenge.


Basedow - Gercke Herbst Orgel

Klaus Eichhorn plays works by different composers
D, Basedow, Dorfkirche
Organ by Gercke-Herbst / Schuke (P) (1683-1983)
46 ranks, 36 voices / registers, 3 manuals
Artistic quality: +
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +
Label: Capriccio, recorded 1988, 11 tracks, total time 65:19 __Organ details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
This CD presents a wonderful organ – one of the few authentic Baroque instruments in Germany.


Louis Vierne: 24 Fantasiestücke (2 CDs)

Bernhard Buttmann plays works by Louis Vierne
D, Bochum, Ruhr-Uni Audimax
Organ by Klais (1998)
120 ranks, 82 voices / registers (3 x 32'), 4 manuals
Artistic quality: +
Quality of sound: ++
Overall rating: +
Label: Motette, recorded 2003, 24 tracks, total time 56:51 (CD 1), 71.53 (CD 2) __Organ details
__CD details
Dröhnich's concise comment:
A very interesting concert hall organ exactly fitting to Vierne’s works, perfect recording.



Remark:
In some cases the 'overall placings' do not seem to fit in with the placings in the subcategories of interpretation and sound quality –
this is due to the fact that here I included the choice of works and the "must-have-factor"as well.