Composer

William Wolstenholme

Albums

The Psalms of David

St Paul's Cathedral Choir, John Scott

Organ Fireworks 9: Organ of Berner Münster, Switzerland

Christopher Herrick

The Mesmerizing Tunes of Christopher Herrick and the Legacy of William Wolstenholme

Prepare yourself for a captivating auditory experience brought to you by Christopher Herrick, an esteemed organist known for his masterful renditions and compositions. His latest performance - Organ Fireworks 9 - showcases his exceptional talents on the organ of Berner Münster, Switzerland, presenting an organized ensemble of harmony and dynamism.

Christopher Herrick's Performance

Herrick's performance is not merely an organ recital; it's an immersive encounter that leaves audiences spellbound. His style is nuanced yet precise, offering a unique interpretation that engages and moves listeners. On this occasion, he teamed up with the revered choir of St. Paul's Cathedral, led by John Scott, amplifying the intensity of the musical experience.

Herrick’s Novel Approach to 'The Psalms of David'

One of Herrick’s crowning achievements in this performance is his refreshingly novel approach to 'The Psalms of David,' a project of William Wolstenholme. Presented on the grand stage of STAGE+, this performance promises to inspire, uplift, and captivate, revealing fascinating new dimensions to Wolstenholme's works.

The Experience of Christopher Herrick's Organ Music

Experience the captivating organ music of Christopher Herrick as he explores the depths of emotionality in traditional and contemporary organ literature. You don't want to miss this rich blend of music, architecture, and spirituality, as presented on the stage of one of Switzerland’s most iconic cathedrals.

Whether you're a seasoned organ music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the enchanting sounds of Christopher Herrick's performance is a delight to the senses, bringing an unmatched sonic experience to every listener, all the while paying tribute to the fascinating works of the legendary William Wolstenholme.

William Wolstenholme: Composer and Organist

William Wolstenholme (1865–1931) was an English composer and organist whose reputation rose from his northern English hometown of Blackburn to international prominence. Blind from an early age, Wolstenholme was educated at the Worcester College for the Blind, where his influential teachers included William Done and the esteemed composer Edward Elgar. He later studied music at Oxford, becoming the first blind musician to take the degree since John Stanley.

Career and Musical Legacy

Wolstenholme served as organist at several churches, including St Paul's, Blackburn, and later a series of prominent London churches. He was well known as a recitalist and teacher, attracting students from the UK and abroad, especially the United States. His sister, Maud, played a pivotal role as his secretary and amanuensis throughout his career.

Wolstenholme's music spans a range of genres, including organ works, his primary focus, chamber music, orchestral pieces, and songs. Widely respected as a composer and improviser, Wolstenholme’s legacy includes both the performance tradition he fostered and his numerous original compositions.

Notable Works

A number of Wolstenholme’s works remain in the repertoire, especially for organists. Some of his compositions include Allegretto scherzando, An Irish Phantasy, Barcarolle, Bohemesque, Cantilene in A flat, Concert Overture No. 2 in G, Op. 61, Fantasia in E, Op. 33 No. 1, Organ Sonata No. 1 in F major, Serenata, The Seraph’s Strain, The Answer / Die Antwort / The Question / Die Frage. His works were performed in notable venues; for example, he was chosen to play at the memorial service for Sir Cyril Arthur Pearson in London.

Recognition and Tributes

Wolstenholme’s death in 1931 was marked by tributes from his hometown of Blackburn, where several of his compositions were performed