The Organ DEFEATED ME.

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  • Опубліковано 24 гру 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 439

  • @SalisburyOrganist
    @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +46

    Loving reading your comments and suggestions on this week’s video - please keep them coming! 🤩

    • @laserhawk64
      @laserhawk64 Місяць тому +8

      I generally have about as much proper faith and religion in me as you'll find in a random bicycle horn... but there is just something about British cathedrals, large and small... even I feel a certain reverence in such places. Truly things of beauty. The British countryside is equally glorious in its own right.
      This video literally moved me to tears not once, but _twice_ -- once, with the dedication from the officer's widow, and the other with the wonderful hymn at the end. Thank you for sharing your talents with the world, and thank you for showing us all these tiny cathedrals in the places people all-too-often forget unless they live there.

    • @RichardReikowsky9005
      @RichardReikowsky9005 Місяць тому +2

      Try to listen everywhere having internet troubles right now

    • @PortsladeBySea
      @PortsladeBySea Місяць тому +5

      @@laserhawk64Superb comment 👍🛐❤

    • @laserhawk64
      @laserhawk64 Місяць тому +3

      @@PortsladeBySea D'awww shucks lol
      Thanks!

    • @JSB2500
      @JSB2500 Місяць тому +3

      Hi Ben, please see my message below about (a) Trinity College, and (b) Oliver Latry.
      In terms of the advice you requested...
      The trick IMO is to have the palms of your hands much lower - about level with the key top when the key is pressed - and pull the key down using the same action as if you were closing your hand i.e. pull your finger tips towards the palms of your hands.
      In addition - and I got this from concert pianist Danny Driver - with the Widor Toccata in particular, strike the keys like you are playing a Steinway grand! Do not keep your keys on the key surface! This prevents tension.
      Never carry tension with this piece. A single wrong note tells you that you're carrying tension. If you don't realize this, then more tension will result as you worry about the wrong note!
      I think this is what happened to you.
      With these two fixes, I can now play this piece for hours without fatigue or tension.
      I think your decision not to soldier on, and tough it out, was a very good one indeed!! 😃

  • @Knappa22
    @Knappa22 Місяць тому +120

    A lesser man would never post a video showing themself struggling with something they are known to be good at.
    It’s the honesty, the musings and little reflections that make you a star, and so relatable somehow x

    • @zonabrown9241
      @zonabrown9241 Місяць тому +5

      ❤❤beautiful hymn Ben heard Alex Jones sing it

    • @CharlesDavis-f8k
      @CharlesDavis-f8k Місяць тому

      I saw it immediately. His gene keys are... important in understanding his true motivations. Mordrid... be still..........................!

    • @PortsladeBySea
      @PortsladeBySea Місяць тому +7

      Very true. That’s why we love Ben Maton, his films and music 🛐🎹👍

    • @2listening1
      @2listening1 Місяць тому +3

      @@Knappa22 yes!

    • @scottnyc6572
      @scottnyc6572 Місяць тому +4

      Well said!!

  • @irenastansby5861
    @irenastansby5861 Місяць тому +68

    Sunday evenings would never be the same without this programme. Always so relaxingly beautiful as well as educational.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +6

      I’m very humbled. Thank you

    • @NoelCampbell-e2l
      @NoelCampbell-e2l Місяць тому +7

      Couldn’t agree more! Educational, entertaining and totally relaxing! 🇮🇪☘️To ben and all, warmest greetings from Ireland.

    • @coreygrua3271
      @coreygrua3271 Місяць тому +4

      Well said. These thoughts capture my own experience with this rare and delightful channel. The sensitivity and brilliance of Ben Maton are matched by his restraint in expressing the frustration that this organ must have been to him. His mature response had no swearing or throwing of equipment. BRAVO!

    • @taniacummings9207
      @taniacummings9207 Місяць тому

      ​@@coreygrua3271None that we saw, anyway. 😉

  • @noelbolingbroke-kent3009
    @noelbolingbroke-kent3009 Місяць тому +77

    What a dreadful tale of woe; an organ with gold pipes getting the better of our Hero! However, Ben is a ‘lovely guy’ and we, the 34,000 members of his UA-cam family, are very fortunate to enjoy so much of Ben’s loveliness, despite his inability to play a faulty organ.

  • @johnblakeH
    @johnblakeH Місяць тому +51

    Even a frustrated and frazzled Ben is calmer than I at my best, lol. Bless you, Ben. I know exactly where you're coming from. As a professional pianist, 66 years old, who grew up accustomed to playing on classic Baldwins and Steinways, quite often I had to play "lesser" instruments that almost always had heavier actions. Pieces that I had played a hundred times suddenly became endurance marathons that left my fingers shaking and my playing mistake riddled. I imagine for an organist it would be even worse. Strike this one up to experience. Bless you for your humility and honesty. We love you.

  • @DavidtheWriter
    @DavidtheWriter Місяць тому +42

    Ben, as others have commented, I really enjoyed today's journey -- the story of this humble church, highlighting its organ, and attempting Widor's Tocatta no less. Alas, we join you not for the perfect recital but for the soulful glimpse into what is good and sacred in our topsy-turvy world. Thank you, and continued best wishes. A proud supporter from Northern California.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +8

      Thank you David. I’ll be back, soon hopefully, but at least it shows everyone the challenges we face sometimes.

    • @normanchristie4524
      @normanchristie4524 Місяць тому +2

      Ben, I have watched several of your videos...this one is probably the most inspirational!
      I remember the preparation for my son's wedding, the presiding Vicar just happened be the Dean for West Staffordshire; drafted in as the resident vicar had rapididly left the parish with the funds.
      His words were ' I have a good organist!

    • @normanchristie4524
      @normanchristie4524 Місяць тому +2

      How did you manage to play the pedal board in 'your trackies'!

    • @cbaboxsqueeze
      @cbaboxsqueeze Місяць тому

      You have commented several times on narrow foot pedal wells. Your shoes look rather chunky, have you considered something slimmer like dance pumps? Another item to load onto the trolley.

  • @stevesewful
    @stevesewful Місяць тому +46

    the old saying _"A bad workman...etc" would never apply to you my friend_ you are a splendid ambassador for the instrument.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +8

      Thank you Steve. :)

    • @PortsladeBySea
      @PortsladeBySea Місяць тому +4

      Ben is not a workman, he is a master musician 🎹🎶🥳

    • @2listening1
      @2listening1 Місяць тому +4

      @@SalisburyOrganist but that still remains one of the things I love about your sense of humor! 😻💛🙏👍🕯

  • @rfhurt1
    @rfhurt1 Місяць тому +36

    Ben, your bloopers were just a little insight into the very hard work of organ playing. Thanks for just being you.

  • @daviddoglietto7790
    @daviddoglietto7790 Місяць тому +43

    You have a beautiful soul, Ben. Thank you for your endeavors which have greatly enriched my soul.

  • @TheJojo01902
    @TheJojo01902 Місяць тому +20

    I watched this video the morning before Election Day in the US. It’s a very nervous time here. People are on edge. This video has calmed me greatly, Ben - your narrating voice, the beautiful church and organ, your humility and humanity, and the hymn at the end all worked to calm me. I am most grateful. Thank you.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +5

      That’s a lovely compliment and I’m glad it’s helped you out. I’ll keep them calm and reflective!!

    • @gaze505
      @gaze505 Місяць тому +2

      @@SalisburyOrganist no, please just be yourself!!
      You are loved, but don’t get a swelled head. The chapel doors are for the humble of heart.
      I love you too, young friend!

  • @AnthonyJP
    @AnthonyJP Місяць тому +22

    This was delightful. So many social media producers portray a perfect, often unattainable image of themselves. Thank you for being so honest, it added depth to your story. A true professional.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +3

      I try to make them as close to the 'real me’ as possible!

    • @roberthayter157
      @roberthayter157 Місяць тому

      Totally agree with that sentiment.

  • @Rollinglenn
    @Rollinglenn Місяць тому +29

    What a perfect way to close this video, "Be still ..." ! We all need this when we are confronted by adversity. Beautiful peace.❤

  • @indiana600610
    @indiana600610 Місяць тому +28

    My heat sank as you shared your story of the 120 laughing boys😢. I’m so glad that you didn’t let that moment discourage you from pursuing your dreams! The world is a far better place due to your talents 😊!

    • @irenastansby5861
      @irenastansby5861 Місяць тому +3

      They are not laughing now, are they

    • @linnaeusshecut3959
      @linnaeusshecut3959 Місяць тому +2

      As a teenager, many years ago, I had to play for an evening service during "youth week". I was so nervous that instead of playing the introduction to a certain hymn, I played it all the way through. Afterwards, my teacher remarked that he thought it was appropriate. I hadn't even realized that I had done it.

  • @alankovacs7636
    @alankovacs7636 Місяць тому +22

    a bad workman, I am CERTAIN You are NOT! How refreshing for You to give us what is really going on

  • @duncanbhome
    @duncanbhome Місяць тому +20

    Was played by an organist friend at our wedding as we walked out. Asked him to have some fun with it and halfway down the aisle it morphed into The Magic Roundabout theme tune.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +5

      I haven’t mastered that yet..!

    • @duncanbhome
      @duncanbhome Місяць тому +3

      @SalisburyOrganist Widor toccata was a bit easier to play as it has 3 manuals. The organ was originally made by Joseph Walker 1856
      J.W. Walker & Sons 1879
      J.W. Walker & Sons 1934
      Nicholson & Co. 2001

  • @KenG557
    @KenG557 Місяць тому +24

    This beautiful autumn Sunday, I'm reminded of the words "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth."

    • @johnbrigg1776
      @johnbrigg1776 Місяць тому +8

      Sorry to sound pedantic, but here goes. The psalmist knew that, in Biblical times, the people lived in the valleys, keeping a weather eye on the hills which gave cover to both two and four legged predators. If,as some translations have it, you insert a full stop and a question mark, the whole thing makes sense, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills. From whence cometh my help? My help cometh from the LORD……..”

  • @deborahdik
    @deborahdik Місяць тому +31

    Lol. I love the “rowdy string players”

  • @davidwilliams8405
    @davidwilliams8405 Місяць тому +20

    Well played and well done Ben. Liked the brief history of that little church, and glad to see that it has been restored and kept in good repair. Cheers, dude.

    • @davidwilliams8405
      @davidwilliams8405 Місяць тому +1

      Will you take another stab at playing that organ? At least you don't have to hand pump it in order to get it to perform!

  • @paulnovosel9469
    @paulnovosel9469 Місяць тому +20

    Your honesty is above honor. Keep bringing me so much joy in your videos, you are a wonderful gift of art and music to our civilization which is so fragile.

  • @KarenDavies-rg1ul
    @KarenDavies-rg1ul Місяць тому +21

    'Be still for the presence of the Lord'... sublime. Thank you Ben.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks Karen 😊

    • @JonathanRWilliams
      @JonathanRWilliams Місяць тому +4

      I second that Karen - beautiful sentiment set to a beautiful tune and beautifully played with great feeling. Thank you, Ben.

  • @jdcorganist
    @jdcorganist Місяць тому +16

    First hand experience today from “Tales from the Organ Bench”… Planning for a couple weeks for a choir concert which I was accompanying today with a small chamber ensemble, harp and timpani. During the night last night the church’s boiler died, plummeting the church into cold. The ultimate decision was to move the concert a couple blocks over to another large church. The singers brought their music stands and sang with their same voices. The chamber musicians brought their usual personal instruments. Me, however, had to spend 2 hours after my church service across town re-registering all 70-some presets throughout the program for the different organ… going from a 1920’s romantic(ish) organ to a 1960’s Quasi-Neo-Baroque organ with a newer digital console. There were two train wrecks from me on this program, but otherwise it went mostly ok. The primary role of the organist is similar to the Borg motto: adapt.
    I have played the Widor on a little 5-rank tracker with 2 octaves of pedals: I’ve played it on a 4-manual, 80+ rank Baroque organ, and I’ve played it on digital and pipe organs of all sizes. And each time you play it, it is different.
    So in terms of this video, you are showing what every organist has to deal with since the instruments they play are not their own!

    • @brucealanwilson4121
      @brucealanwilson4121 Місяць тому +2

      @@jdcorganist Rodney Jantzi played it on a reed organ.

  • @davidschraa4639
    @davidschraa4639 Місяць тому +20

    I am sure that all the French cathedral organists would say, "bon courage!"

  • @richardherbert9320
    @richardherbert9320 Місяць тому +13

    Ben! Your weekly presentation is the highlight of my and literally thousands of other's, week! Keep it up, you're an asset to your fellow countrymen and like-minded souls all over the world!

  • @p3t1954
    @p3t1954 Місяць тому +14

    God bless you mightily Ben.
    Love coming home on a sabbath evening to watch your video.
    They are always a blessing to watch, but tonight's is just amazing.
    The history, your narrative, the music, and your honest comments on playing Widor on a village organ were such a blessing.
    May I ask, suggest maybe even request that you would play some time my favourite hymn, And Can it Be that I Should Gain.
    Many thanks and best regards from Belfast, Northern Ireland.

  • @user-jx3jp3gb4x
    @user-jx3jp3gb4x Місяць тому +15

    Ben, I love your integrity and honesty! What joy you bring to us! Thank YOU! In tears listening to your last hymn in this video,, for me,....those stops immediately put me into a state of worship to Almighty God.

  • @dryroasted5599
    @dryroasted5599 Місяць тому +9

    Perfection was only given to one man. The rest of us muddle through, mistakes and all.

  • @willmears1111
    @willmears1111 Місяць тому +10

    Very instructional being a non organist, but fanatical lover of church organ music.

  • @yiayia9373
    @yiayia9373 11 днів тому

    Honestly, tears come to my eyes when I see the quiet English countryside, ancient churches, and hear hymns played on country pipe organs. It takes me back to England where I visited in Oct. '24. I soul is quieted and I can pray. Thank you, Ben. I increased my monthly donation because your work is so meaningful. Melita Green

  • @wisjoh1
    @wisjoh1 Місяць тому +11

    Your offerings are piercingly beautiful . 😊 ❤

  • @itsOlaOlowo
    @itsOlaOlowo Місяць тому +6

    What a way to end the video with the hymn "Be still for the presence of the Lord is here." Just over a month ago, the same hymn was played at the opening of our evening young people's service and I've not recovered from its earworm. How we need that stillness in our heart today in the midst of this troubled world. Thank you Ben.

  • @-11114
    @-11114 Місяць тому +10

    Always a real pleasure and perfect ending to a Sunday to see and hear Ben
    Grateful thanks from Scotland for all your work and dedication which is second to none 🙏

  • @LS-rj3xu
    @LS-rj3xu Місяць тому +3

    Widor’s Toccata and Be Still … imperfection and perfection … a lovely combination and contrast! I thought you’d like to know that before the busyness of the day I often start my morning Still Time with your Be Still. And if I need a boost later on, I click your red sock Lefebure Wely!

  • @2listening1
    @2listening1 Місяць тому +9

    Cloudy days rest the eyes so softly. I loved the scenery video during the final hymn. 🕯

  • @mirandarudzki
    @mirandarudzki Місяць тому +7

    Nothing detracts from your amazing organ playing. As a non-musician I am in awe every time!

  • @Tradairn
    @Tradairn Місяць тому +14

    "Rowdy string players". Got that right.

  • @margaretsimmondswoodley3423
    @margaretsimmondswoodley3423 Місяць тому +13

    Wow, Ben Maton is human!! Obviously another super video. The highlight of my week. 💜

  • @taniacummings9207
    @taniacummings9207 Місяць тому +5

    You weren't defeated, Ben, you learned something. Its the greatest triumph of all. God bless you. You bring me close to my green and pleasant land every week, for I am so far away.

  • @bobbyhendley3084
    @bobbyhendley3084 Місяць тому +4

    I did it once as the postlude when playing the service at what would be the American equivalent of a village church. On a small and old pipe organ. It came out crisp, clean, and vibrant! The congregation was quite moved and elated. And it confirmed to me that an instrument’s humble nature never need rob a congregation of great beauty.

  • @arnoldguntrum7906
    @arnoldguntrum7906 Місяць тому +4

    "Be still for the presence of the Lord" was truly enjoyable to listen to and a most appropriate prompt for all of us to heed in these times. You made it a joy to experience a visit to St. Andrews Church. Thank you.

  • @simonbarnwell7787
    @simonbarnwell7787 Місяць тому +8

    Every lesson is valuable , whether deemed a success or not , a lesson is learned , your ability to share your struggles and triumphs honestly gives us all encouragement to do likewise .

  • @Datroflshopper
    @Datroflshopper Місяць тому +6

    What an absolutely crazy coincidence - the first church service I ever played as an organist had Be Still for the Presence of the Lord as one of the hymns too!. I took up organ reasonably later than you, but almost 6 months into playing services and still happily going strong.
    Love your channel!

  • @davidedwinhoneywill2611
    @davidedwinhoneywill2611 Місяць тому +1

    Thank you so much for playing "Be still for the presence of the Lord..." It brings back special memories of singing it in our choir In Welkom, South Africa. We were also blessed with a pipe organ. You have a special gift Ben.

  • @timw4383
    @timw4383 7 днів тому

    The words on that bench more than made up for your defeat by that organ.
    Those words reminding you of such a beautiful piece of music that you were able to share at the end was so worth watching the entire video.
    Thank you.

  • @aleksandarjovcic
    @aleksandarjovcic Місяць тому +3

    Thank you for the kyrie eleison in the background I loved it. Keep doing that and keep making these awesome videos.

  • @jilliemc
    @jilliemc Місяць тому +7

    Ah, that explains why you include that one! We used to sing it in the Episcopal church back in the 1980s and 90s, usually accompanied by guitar. Your treatment of it on the organ makes it even better.

  • @robertmdaniels
    @robertmdaniels Місяць тому +11

    Another delightful time with Ben!

  • @MrSweelinck
    @MrSweelinck Місяць тому +3

    I'm not an organist, but I play one on Sunday. (well, piano, mostly) Thank you for showing that adaptation to instruments is hard work. Going in and playing cold on an unfamiliar instrument. Many thanks for showing the aftermath of "And that's as many wrong notes as you'll ever hear on the Salisbury Organist's channel". Each week I look forward to video.

  • @TomMeyer-LB
    @TomMeyer-LB Місяць тому +1

    Thanks for two things: a) for showing the small churches and organs and reflecting on the things, small organists have to deal with every day in contrast to the big cathedral organs everyone wants to play - and b) this story and video really helped me to calm down after an exhausting day and find back to inner strength and confidence. That was especially helpful today ❤😊

  • @dianedurham2896
    @dianedurham2896 Місяць тому +6

    Ben, take heart! I'm feel sure that Vidor's Toccata & Fugue would not have been composed if Vidor had to play on THAT organ...Again beautiful music! Thank you!

  • @barrysisson6604
    @barrysisson6604 Місяць тому +1

    I love your videos and masterful organ music! Thank you for your insightful commentary about the churches and the pipe organs located within. I thoroughly enjoy watching and listening. God bless! 🙏

  • @RobertJohnsonmusic
    @RobertJohnsonmusic Місяць тому +6

    What a wonderful tour today! Even the Widor did not detract from the quality of your work. Bravo, Ben! 👏🏻👏🏻🎹

  • @brianthesnail3815
    @brianthesnail3815 Місяць тому +2

    Churches like this one are dotted all over England and all as beautiful, ancient and full of history and music. I defy anyone who cannot love that for what it is and all it represents.
    Lovely rendition on this quite simple church organ. I am not a musician at all but really enjoyed the talk and the music. No matter how strenuous. 🤣

  • @moutonlotter7750
    @moutonlotter7750 Місяць тому +1

    Thank you for these insightful videos. Always with a twist. I'd love to pay a visit to Salisbury one day (some travel from South Africa)😅

  • @AndrewCrichton-s9t
    @AndrewCrichton-s9t Місяць тому +1

    Great video, Ben, as always. Love the plainchant Missa De Angelis Kyrie arrangement

  • @LittleNoiseBoy
    @LittleNoiseBoy Місяць тому +1

    There is so much to enjoy on every level in your content: the music, the sacred places, the history, the appreciation of nature and stillness. Thank you :-)

  • @mattnbin
    @mattnbin Місяць тому +2

    Just love how you left the mistakes in. Just so real and appreciate it all the more. Just the same way I often play it from memory. Keep going sir!!!

  • @PeterGLock1
    @PeterGLock1 Місяць тому +4

    WONDERFUL - I played for 16 years on the wonderful 2M Nicholson Tracker action Organ at St Mark's Bilton near Rugby - with the Widor at weddings, I would never couple Swell to Great till the last 2 or 3 bars, it is so stiff coupled. I entirely agree with your comments about Introduction practice for Hymns but you demonstrated that you are a real expert - especially the section at the end - WELL DONE

  • @williamschafferjr9091
    @williamschafferjr9091 Місяць тому +5

    Ben,I do know to thank you or what to say. I asked you a few weeks ago about you playing this. I wanted to here and watch you play this. I am so thrilled by you. It was far more then I had hoped for. Thank you Ben...

  • @roberthayter157
    @roberthayter157 Місяць тому

    Thank you Ben for your videos which are unique in character. Your appreciation of those beautiful villages and the ancient churches is just wonderful.

  • @turbine6202
    @turbine6202 Місяць тому +1

    Your Widor was far better than any of my attempts in my years as an organist. My little legs always found it hard to play the octave pedal leaps without my bum sliding off the organ stool!

  • @christinawatkinsyoutube
    @christinawatkinsyoutube Місяць тому +4

    rarely do i have time to be so early to a video, this was so lovely to watch. if only every village church still had an organist. so many churches i think of, especially around my parts in london & st albans where i’ve never heard the organ being played even though it’s right there.

  • @carolingimundson1392
    @carolingimundson1392 Місяць тому +4

    Ben you are so amazing Love listening to your organ playing🙏👏

  • @kesmarn
    @kesmarn Місяць тому +10

    Having had lunch after the Premiere and taken a little time for reflection on today's adventure, I can only say many thanks, Ben, for being willing to take a few risks here. Kudos! As for the Golden Organ, the only name I can apply to her (since I'm inclined to name almost everything) is Arabella.
    What you observed is so true -- having studied piano (which I did for five years) in almost no way fits anyone to be able to play the organ. A fact that truly has been brought home in the process of watching your channel. When I went to a Catholic academy for high school here in the US, there actually was a school orchestra. (Don't now whether those exist any more) The nun who conducted the orchestra taught me to play (of all things) the bass -- which looked ludicrous , as I'm 5 feet tall. So I suppose I also would qualify as a rowdy string player.
    But it seems nothing compares to being an organist. And among organists, no one compares to your unique, fresh take on things. So very much appreciated.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +4

      An absolute delight to read- thank you ( as always!) for commenting

    • @kesmarn
      @kesmarn Місяць тому +3

      @@SalisburyOrganist My pleasure indeed.

  • @medhat4B
    @medhat4B Місяць тому +1

    Ben. I love watching and listening to your videos. My mother learned to play piano while growing up in a Scottish coal mining village in the 1930s and early1940s. She eventually became organist at our family church on Vancouver Island. Sadly she passed away age 48 in 1980. It is a cherished memory I have of her. She was always up for a challenge when she heard a tune she liked. Carry on playing, Ben. I bought you 10 coffees - and I don't even drink coffees.

  • @bertspeggly4428
    @bertspeggly4428 Місяць тому +1

    For Widor at the wedding, have a CD player and a big-ass speaker system hidden behind the organ, and mime it! Great video, well done.

  • @CathyCook-j5r
    @CathyCook-j5r Місяць тому

    Oh yes, I couldn’t agree more, Ben - being still and sitting on a bench - that’s definitely what I need at the moment!! Thank you for re-connecting me with a little peace and calm - your playing of that final hymn (Be Still for the Presence of the Lord) was just pure bliss.

  • @kellywasson4491
    @kellywasson4491 Місяць тому +1

    Ah, Ben. What a marvelous video!
    Not all outcomes are great, but it is through these trials that make us stronger, knowledgeable, and experienced.
    When I was in high school, the choral director asked me to accompany the girls' ensemble that the accompanist could sing with them.
    The piece did not have a good ending, so she hand wrote the new ending - about two pages worth. I practiced and practiced. The piece was "Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella."
    I was nervous that day, having already sung in the choir and played bassoon with the band. I think there were about 2,000 students assembled in the gymnasium for this Christmas program.
    As I was beginning the piece, I heard a voice behind me urging me to play at a faster tempo. A tempo much faster than I had done in rehearsal. Then, I came to the handwritten portion. Sheer and utter panic. Honestly, that is all I can remember.

  • @stuartrobertson7950
    @stuartrobertson7950 Місяць тому +1

    I heard this lovely broadcast in America. I tried to make a contribution, but nothing appeared on the screen to make this possible. Perhaps this non-musical problem can be corrected.

  • @murielpeterson4787
    @murielpeterson4787 Місяць тому +4

    Wonderful….Be still for the presence of the Lord is one of my favourites, loved learning the technical side of the organs…hope we learn to be still this week …shalom

  • @davef.2329
    @davef.2329 Місяць тому +4

    Such history you're surrounded by there. Another great Sunday video and a fine assistant Sophia is.Thanks for all you do and cheers to Billy, as well.

  • @smilenmarkov3840
    @smilenmarkov3840 8 днів тому

    What I really like is you do not pretend you don't make mistakes. Musicians' humility is a rare virtue.

  • @SueFerreira75
    @SueFerreira75 Місяць тому

    Thank you, Ben. Your "still small voice of calm" is very much needed in these days of Mankind's "earthquake, wind and fire".

  • @MarjorieFlohr
    @MarjorieFlohr Місяць тому +1

    Thank you for the Vidor Toccata, one of my favourite pieces.

  • @stephenhayden2586
    @stephenhayden2586 Місяць тому +2

    I'm only starting to learn the organ at 69 years old it's so refreshing to see that such a professional guy as yourself can loose it at times

  • @kahnlives
    @kahnlives Місяць тому +1

    Just found your channel. As for music suggestions anything by Bach would be sublime. 😊

  • @davidheap5338
    @davidheap5338 Місяць тому +4

    Its always great to see behind the scenes as it were, editing is great at making someone sound perfect every time, as we all know it takes practice to not make a mistake, but when you get through a piece of music for the first time, fault free, its just a wonderful thing. If only i was anywhere near as good as you. Im an home organ player on my Technics GA3 organ and since ive been watching you ive gone back to playing church music which was always my first love but seemed to move away from over the years. ive purchased a few classic & Hymn music books and im really enjoying getting to grips with the likes of Jupiter, Ave Maria and Nimrod, although nimrod has been getting me tied up in knots trying to get through it without mistakes, which ive not yet managed, even playing it really slow. Keep up the good work its a pleasure tuning in. ps ive sent you a few quid to help pay for your Cheese n Pickle Sandwich's😄.

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +1

      Fantastic. Thank you David 😀

    • @davidheap5338
      @davidheap5338 Місяць тому +1

      @@SalisburyOrganist Hi Ben, what sound recording equipment do you have, im struggling to record the bass on the organ, my camcorder will pick up the main organ but there's no bass even if i record direct from the headphone jack point, it would be great if you could do a video showing what equipment you have and may be even showing abit about your editing.

  • @billymeyer99
    @billymeyer99 Місяць тому +1

    I am thankful that you continue to be unbowed by your challenges and setbacks. Performance is always a tightrope walk, which sometimes owes its flavour to failing keys or in my case, vocal chords

  • @g.k.failla9389
    @g.k.failla9389 Місяць тому

    He really uses 2 of my favorite mottos: "adapt, improvise, overcome" and " do what you can with what you have, where you are". (Organ 1, Ben 1. A draw). From Chicago, U.S.A.

  • @anthonyhughes117
    @anthonyhughes117 Місяць тому +1

    Ben - been there, done that, kept going! You are an inspiration. Thank you.

  • @annenewton5403
    @annenewton5403 Місяць тому +1

    Loved your honesty , I’m a Pianist. There is a limit to finger work sometimes too.

  • @Quince828
    @Quince828 Місяць тому +1

    You should be awarded a B for Bravery for even attempting that stunt on that organ! I knew as soon as you began that that creaky old tracker action might defeat you, but you soldiered on. Such good fun teasing new tricks out of such an old dog of an organ!

    • @taniacummings9207
      @taniacummings9207 Місяць тому +2

      Dear little organ could well have shed tears of joy after Ben had left. "I'm so happy, I've always wanted to have that played on me and no one else has dared. Now I feel I have reached my peak and can stare all those big organs in the eye and say ever so casually - oh yes, indeed, Ben Maton, the Salisbury Organist, he's quite famous actually. Yes, on You Tube, I'm recorded for posterity having it played on me. Thousands of views, hundreds of Likes".

    • @boblovell5789
      @boblovell5789 Місяць тому +1

      Love your comment. Me exactly!

  • @scottnyc6572
    @scottnyc6572 Місяць тому +1

    In 1961 Francis Jackson,organist of York Minster Cathedral,played Charles-Marie Widor’s Toccata Symphony No.5 at the Duke and Duchess’s of Kent wedding.Before then it wasn’t widely played for wedding ceremonies.
    I like the fact that you’re willing to share these challenges with us which shows even better character.Thanks

  • @jglerum6472
    @jglerum6472 28 днів тому

    Great performance,love it Greetings from Holland..

  • @alyswilliams9571
    @alyswilliams9571 Місяць тому +5

    Beautiful music as always Ben especially the Vaughn Williams. Love everything RVW.

  • @Gor800
    @Gor800 Місяць тому +1

    Such a wonderful and informative post, Ben. We used the Widor as our wedding recessional and then as the wedding recessional for our daughter’s wedding.
    I applaud your effort to play this magnificent selection on such a small organ. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to presenting these post.

  • @pkjmfineart1593
    @pkjmfineart1593 Місяць тому +1

    Equal to David Attenborough is our generous maestro Ben. Such awe inspiring, wonderful and might I say - heavenly content. 😊😉
    The last tune - so beautiful, played magnificently. Thank you so much.

  • @smoothsilk47
    @smoothsilk47 Місяць тому +1

    This video Ben was particularly special to me, as I mentioned before my mum lived in Donhead, plus a pal came for dinner who is notoriously difficult to please, I put your video on & I could see he was enthralled by watching it. “Result👍” I agreed with him it was particularly interesting with the organ class you gave us! Thanks so much! John in Monmouth 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

  • @SSB-im9mn
    @SSB-im9mn 3 дні тому

    I admire you for trying that! My answer is always "No, it won't work, especially on a tracker with one keyboard". Then I steer them towards Mendelssohn... Once on a non-tracker, I agreed after a lot of persuasion, but kept my eye on the congregation as they left and after about 5 pages stuck in a final chord and stopped, with a silent apology offered to Charlie Mary, of course. Nobody moaned at me because they were all outside having their photos taken. 😁 Happy playing and well done for the great videos and all the extra info. Village churches, and organs, in the UK are a truly wonderful part of our heritage and history.

  • @chips161
    @chips161 Місяць тому +2

    Thanks for your thorough explanations. As one of those pianists who have never touched an organ, this was very interesting and informative. Looking forward to your next visit to this church organ!

    • @SalisburyOrganist
      @SalisburyOrganist  Місяць тому +2

      Delighted, thanks. I’ll keep the organ demos coming

  • @brucegreaves3204
    @brucegreaves3204 4 дні тому

    Wonderful. Happy Christmas and thank you

  • @gerardhawkins17
    @gerardhawkins17 26 днів тому

    In this case knowing how involved you had more heart than I would keep up the good work I enjoy the organs you have found

  • @johannesg7997
    @johannesg7997 Місяць тому +1

    Well, you tried well, and therefore you can walk home with yout head held high. I am sure you will return and 'finish Widor off... You know that you can play that piece. Those ideas and hints you gave sound ample and comprehensible, thank you for them.
    Special thanks also for quoting that 'Kyrie' from the Angles Mass, I can hardly remember when we sung it last time in a service! Greetings from a German leisure organist who is not fit for Widor's Toccata yet...

  • @hallja13
    @hallja13 Місяць тому

    I have only played the Widor Toccata on one tracer instrument, and that convinced me that was not a good choice, so I certainly empathize with your struggles at St. Andrew's..Can't wait to see what you end up doing on this great-sounding instrument in such a lovely church. Keep up the great work, and rest those fingers!

  • @Shankarees
    @Shankarees 28 днів тому

    Dear Ben, Hailing from the USA, this Anglophile tremendously enjoyed your interesting program. I studied organ but never amounted to anything. I love organ music and I have written a few pieces. I wish you success in this field and hope easy-to-manage organs would meet you for many years. I am at odds with PayPal but plan to drop you a check when I am next in merry olde England. Love in organism.

  • @andyt2298
    @andyt2298 6 днів тому

    So honest Ben. A few years ago I had the very same experience. An old tracker nearly crippled my fingers but I got there, bruised but unbloodied.

  • @terryllenhart5331
    @terryllenhart5331 Місяць тому +1

    You are amazing Sir! Humble for sure. Thank you.

  • @tomclemans
    @tomclemans Місяць тому +1

    I love these videos - the history, the buildings, and your musical performances!!!
    You keep visiting buildings that are ancient compared to my experience. The oldest building in Washington State, where I live, was built in 1843. I haven't visited the building yet, as it is a 6 hour drive from my home.

  • @stephenregan5688
    @stephenregan5688 Місяць тому

    Ben, you and the hymn at the end were angelic. Something we need but rarely get in our lives. Thanks.

  • @barbaramcdonald5682
    @barbaramcdonald5682 Місяць тому +2

    Great to see you freed up in your presentation by having a helper filming, really added something. Lovely too to have such an honest performance, warts and all! Enjoyable and informative as always. Thanks Ben

  • @judithmiller7992
    @judithmiller7992 Місяць тому

    Ben, I've been in a very dark place since the presidential election results on Wednesday. I found this video today and it was deeply comforting. Thank you. There is goodness and beauty and it's not far away.