Reporter: Tony Sheldon
Date online: 12/06/2008

Despite being ousted from their usual home at the Gracie Fields Theatre due to refurbishment, the Music Society came up trumps with a memorable night in our own Town Hall. The municipal organ is regarded as one of the most interesting instruments of Europe and it was given a rare and splendid airing by the international virtuoso, Wayne Marshall.

One of the most exciting and gifted musicians the North West has produced, the Oldham born Organist-in-Residence at the Bridgewater Hall trained in Britain and Vienna and now enjoys a world-wide reputation as an organist, pianist, conductor, accompanist and musical Renaissance Man.

The first half of his recital consisted of French Romantic organ music admirably suited to the fine JJ Binns instrument of 1913.

In Widor’s Marche Pontificale Wayne established his command, raising powerful music to a sensational level and extracting every ounce of power. With Dupre’s Berceuse from Suite Bretonne he explored softer shades and spiritual tones.

The second symphony by Vierne, the blind maestro of Notre Dame, consisted of five elaborate movements and was a brilliant tour de force, the finale ending with one of the longest held chords you are likely to encounter.

The second half opened with the monumental Fantasy and Fugue on Ad Nos by Liszt, again played with immense control and expression.

He finished as he loves to do with a 25 minute improvisation on Gershwin. It featured that great tune from Porgy and Bess, I got plenty o’ nuttin’ – highly ironic considering Wayne’s abundant musical gifts – and later “I got rhythm, I got music” which better summed up this formidable musician.

This was a musical double bonus: hearing a fine instrument in fine fettle and watching a consummate musician in his element. Please can we have some more?

Wayne Marshall International Organist
Rochdale Music Society
Rochdale Town Hall
Saturday 14 October 2006