Description

American concert organist Stephen Tharp made the first commercial recording of the landmark Casavant Frères pipe organ (Opus 3837) at the Brick Presbyterian Church in New York City. Minister of Music at Brick Church, Keith S. Toth, and Jean-Louis Coignet collaborated on the design and tonal finishing of this large and unique pipe organ, based upon extensive study of the organs of Cavaille-Coll in France and years of experience with their design. The result is a stunning synthesis of both French Symphonic and American Romantic organ building. Stephen Tharp‘s program showcases the entire palette of possibility in this pipe organ, with music by Guilmant, Hakim, Jongen, Tournemire and the premiere recording of Olivier Latry’s unpublished “Arabesque.” The booklet contains extensive information on the organ, including many photos and the disposition, plus an essay on the conception of the instrument by Jean-Louis Coignet. There is also an essay by Stephen Tharp about his background and career.