The Organ Of St Bavo, Haarlem – Joseph Nolan

   in Choir & Organ (Sep, 2018)
Reubke’s Sonata on the 94th Psalm rings out here with robust brilliance in its first recording on the magnificent III/64 Müller organ in Haarlem’s St Bavokerk. Joseph Nolan has the measure of its imposing architecture, formidable pedal demands and Lisztian fire, sweeping through its final moments with dramatic aplomb. Mendelssohn’s D minor Sonata is lent adroit Lutheran solemnity, and Buxtehude’s F major Toccata & Fugue shines on the Müller, Nolan relishing its flamboyant fantasy. Three pieces by Bach – the chorale preludes BWV 659 and 688 and Henri Messerer’s arrangement of the BWV 1004 Chaconne – are richly realised. Ate? Orga’s notes unpick all with intricate attention to detail. …