Organ Music In New England
Acis, 2025
9/10
Listen to Organ Music In New England
The inimitable organist Justin J. Murphy-Mancini fleshes out 27 distinct and timeless selections across this 300th Anniversary Program.
“Washington’s March” leads with the fluid keys emitting much warmth that resonates grace, too, and it isn’t long until “Soft Organ Voluntary” radiates plenty of melody, where the careful progressions are indeed gentle.
Closer to the middle, “The Last Rose of Summer, Varied for the Organ, Op. 59” is full of richness and color via Murphy-Mancini’s capable hands, while “Suite in E major” unfolds across 4 segments of strong tonality and flowing gestures.
“I’ll sing on” lands close to the end, and carries a mesmerizing tone that’s minimal, and “Partita on “Detroit” exits with 11 quick bouts that showcase Murphy-Mancini’s diverse ability and timeless vision.
An effort that comes with detailed liner notes, the playing is flawless and technical, but never esoteric in its dynamic appeal.
Travels well with: Daniel Knaggs- The Joyful Mysteries; Jeremy Beck- Requiem