Heard and owned many of his records, but I never got to see a live performance. He is the touchstone against whom all other organists are measured. What a Christmas treat to hear him again.
If this were the only surviving video of the man, it would suffice. Showman? Yes. Showy? Sure. Talented? More than words. He CLEARLY loved the music. He loved to lift other with his music.Would that people could say such about me when I'm gone. He let us hear God. Need I say more? Thanks to whoever for this post.
The man had TALENT and brought joy to many. Would that we could all say that second part about our lives. I saw him perform and love listening to anyone who loves to get out of a pipe organ what he could!
Saw and heard Virgil twice in my life, heard him many times on recordings (he recorded 54) and videos, the one thing that Virgil had that is a rare commodity today is stage presence. He got you excited about what he was going to play and very much involved his audience. Yes, there are many orgnists just as good but they lack that spiritual excitement. Carlo Curley, folllow Virgil around for 10 yrs. was told by Virgil that there was little he could teach him, but he could give him stage presence.
virgil fox was probaly an amazing player. since im only 14 never got to meat or hear him in real life. heard some of his recordings. virgil was very good but i think paul jacobs, ken cowan, and felix hell would give him a run for his money
I am a fairly inexperienced pianist and organist but I can't even begin to fathom what it takes to be able to conduct and play at the same time, he truly was talanted
He was simply the best there was, and we'll never see another like him in our life time. And I don't care whose video you post playing this, no one can do it better.
What awesome talent. I remember my Dad taking me to Lake Junaluska in the 70's to hear Mr. Fox. I thought (as a kid) this is going to be boring!! But I can remember the first song he played with the Lake Junaluska singers, "What Child is This" & the last song was "To God Be the Glory". What passion & power I felt with every note. It was a moving experience for me at age 6.
I saw him play live at Queens College in New York circa 1970's I was a young teen. He was playing a Rodgers Theater organ from that time. I was in awe and he became my organist hero. He used every bit of the organ to express his deep spiritual commitment to his faith. I believe he also played at Riverside Chapel in New York too.
Glory to God! Such an incredible performance by Virgil Fox. I love how he transposes the hymn for each verse - and in the last verse, the congregation is singing so gorgeously! As an organist myself - Virgil Fox puts an incredible amount of expression and feeling into his playing. The Lord blessed this man with such marvelous talent - and Virgil Fox used it for the glory of God. That is why I think of this man as amazing. Cameron Carpenter plays nothing to the glory of God.
Well, maybe he can play the organ, maybe he can;t, there's not enough here to tell, but anyone who has had even themost rudimentary instruction at the instrument has been told that accurate playing requires one keeps one's head and shoulders STILL. Bouncing around like a beachball probably wouldn't stop an otherwise good organist from playing what is, after all, only an hymn, however reharmonised, with reasonable panache, but it wouldn;t serve for serious Bach, no way! Bad example !!
Quite right - great performers will always attract jealous nobodies who try and cut them down. And what the hell has sexuality got to do with any of it?
@mcheckley When you are at the top of your profession, you can change the norm. For example, Shakespeare was able to create new words. You and I can't do that b/c we have no credibility to stand upon. So check your analysis youngster!
@mcheckley Virgil Fox could play (and he did) ANYTHING and from memory at that. He also played every note accurately. One doesn't have to sit there like a stiff to play. As evidenced here, he was really into it. Virgil could've been jogging while at the console and he wouldn't have missed a note, and it would've been exciting to watch. He was a master at Bach right thru Dupre, and he played every piece from memory. All of the other chump can't play for crap boring organists are still jealous>>>
@mcheckley of him 30 years after his death. He was the greatest organist of the 20th Century bar none. He exposed the organ to a much greater audience than any other organist then, now, living or dead. I wish that I had the talent that he had as well as the expertise that he had. Jealous ass-holes also criticized Liberace, but he certainly could play the piano like no ones business didn't he? Yeah, none of the haters could out play Virgil, they only wish that they could. Jealous ass-wipes....
@mcheckley And BTW Virgil Fox hater, I just checked your channel. How did I know that you're not a musician muchless an organist. It's always you guys with the biggest mouths criticizing everyone else and also from the U.K. where you haven't any organists worth a shit (on the level of Virgil) other than David Briggs. You're just another old hater without any credibility, but loads of worthless opinions. Go to your local church on Sunday to watch that organist play all stiff like a corpse....
Fratelli Ruffatti. Italian Organ manufacturer. Located then in what is now a conference hall, formerly the main worship hall until the Crystal Church was built
Virgil Fox and(,with a little assistance from me!) intigrated the pipe work from the original Ruffatti,into the new,enlarged organ. Also came the pipe work from his home in Englewood containing the 4 manual EM Skinner from the Old South Church in Boston, which we rescued and in addition many additional ranks of Ruffatti and others were added to form what you almost hear now on tv if you can get past the tin horns. That original console may still exist, I do not know
Some of you folks are getting way too "techy" here with all this. GEEEEZZZZZZZ!!!! I love the organ & respect all it's players. I play & had my own "church version" organ in my home for years. I GAVE it to a student 3 years ago. It will blast your hair off & your windows out....LOL. But for me... I WANT to HEAR the FOOT pedal bass sound & clearly & not a thrumb of mush. So who ever's side that goes to have fun with it. Cripes!
Virgil Fox was one of the greatest organists ever. His expressions and movements during a performance occur because he actually feels the music in his soul. His body is reacting to the music with every fiber of his being. If you look close you will see his reactions are greater the more profound the music. We will not see or hear the likes of him anytime soon. Thank God for recordings.
Somehow after seeing and hearing this stunning Christmas Hymn,,"Happy Holidays" just doesn't seem to cut it does it? Go wish someone Merry Christmas,,I dare you. God Bless
Want to hear an AMAZING arrangement of this carol like you've never heard before on the Pipe Organ? Check out the YouTube video: "O Come With A Penny Whistle and Jig ... All Ye Faithful" - Aaron Robinson on the "Mighty Immanuel" organ. Virgil would be proud ...
Virgil Fox was one of a kind. His musicianship was SUPERB and his skill on the organ will never be surpassed. He brought organ music to LIFE! He is missed.
Thank you and bless you my friend. I miss him to and countless of others through whom his hard work lives on.Perhaps someday I will release the Helden Library. We have a number of unpublished works ready to bring forth.
I think I might have figured out who organman is, Michael Murray. The timeline is right for studying in France, he studied with Marcel Dupre. You see Michael and I both studied organ under Dr. Mallory Bransford of Indianapolis (Who was a HUGE Virgil Fox Fan AND friend). I have attended 2 master classes Micheal put on and in both classes made little snide comments about Virgil Fox. Michael, if it is you, Mallory would be so disappointed in you! You are NO Virgil Fox.
Yes, I do hope OM52 does find peace somewhere. I used to be a metal drummer, played in a band, (with wild showmanship) and had a blast. Played for the sheer JOY of playing. (Yes OM52, I said the JOY of playing).
I do not perform anymore due to a serious heart issue, but I still play jazz at home, (for the JOY of it), record and listen to V FOX, metal, C and W, as well as Bach.
OM52 just seems so angry. I cant imagin going through life like that.
Virgil Fox never put on any "movements"He used every fiber of his being in playing the instrument.What you see came from his very being. He never attempted nor tried to add flare with body language. Playing and controling a pipe organ console is a great human athletic feat unlike any other instrument.
I have attended 2 recitals by Michael Murray in Indianapolis at Zion Evangelical United Church of Christ (where he and I took lessons from Dr. Bransford) and I have a few of his CD's. While technically almost flawless, his registrations and interpretations are boring. I know from Dr. Bransford that Marcel Dupre (who Virgil also studied under) always taught to sit upright and not make any moves at the console that were not required.
When one really thinks about it, Marcel Dupre and Virgil Fox had little comparables. At Virgils first lesson with him and after he had placed a book on"how to" in front of the young student he snatched it off and slammed the book shut after the student played the pedal scales at a breathtaking speed in every key of the scale,faster than he had ever seen. In addition Dr Fox did not improvise which was perhaps the genius in Marcel, who also did not hand register the console as did Dr. Fox
As Virgil would always say "in order to break the rules, you have to KNOW the rules", and that Virgil did. I would count Virgil's success by the hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of lives he touched through his organ playing. He was a one of a kind, a true American original, a musician of unequaled talent. Pleiades1432 said it best, he was "living" every single note of the music. He was a man of God and it showed in his playing. Thank You God for Virgil Fox!
Ah, but I do know what it is like to be left out because of what I am. I came of age in the mid to late seventies, and I do know what discrimination based on orientation is all about... and not having anything like the internet to connect with other young people like myself.
I was merely commenting on the fact that anyone can bring glory to God (and I am a Buddhist), no matter whether they are gay or het.
I would add that it really does not matter whether or not someone is gay...either way, this hymn brings glory to the Creator as It is known to the Christian faith.
...And I can only imagine that right now, he is one of the master organists in the Heavenly realms...and I can only imagine the power of those 64' bombards....
I havce always adored the hymn playing of Virgil Fox and have used his stylings to inspire my own spirited hymn playing. Hymns should be played with spirit, fire and fury so the praises can rech the highest heaven
I knew Virgil Fox. Not well, but I knew him. Virgil brought more classical music to the young of this world by accident than any other organist had done in the 20th century on purpose. And, gay or straight, black or white, God whispered in this man's ears. I know it.
Virgil Fox at his best! I never thought I would EVER see such a video! I bought all his recordings 30 (or was it 40) years ago. This is just SO good. Ecstatic.
Organman52...post a video of yourself playing this same hymn...and we'll all vote to see who is better...as far as I'm concerned you reek of jealousy and envy...you talk a great game but you obviously don't have the guts to show anyone your playing or lack of playing maybe...what's the matter are we scared to go against Virgil Fox...He's better than you...get over it
I'm not a religious man but I go to church to listen to the organ and I even play myself but on wednesday christmas eve when I heard my teacher play this it ripped all the sorrow of my body. I know that Virgil did put alot of show into his performances and sometimes go a little to far by what others say but for once can we just listen and if we don't have anything nice to say instead say nothing?
Organman52 I know what you're going on about but really it's not worth it wasting your time dropping all these comments after all everyone has their own interpretations and I'm no master myself but I'll say one thing if the organist can truly become one with his instrument then let him be.
Organman...give it a rest already...seriously, your opinion is your right, but all I see is this barrage of sladerous comments from you, and Fox isn't even alive to defend himself. I think you have a serious issue here, and it isn't with Virgil Fox's playing. We're all tired of it. Drop it already.
It would be interesting to see what kind of pipe organ he is playing on in heaven. It must be quite an instrument for quite an organist that he was while here with us.
I agree, posotive is only accepted, im a kid, and i am good at organ playing. I can add showmanship into my playing, and once my friend compared me to virigl and i dissagreed. I can play in his style, but, im not as good. He is unimatatable, as am i, and any single organist. We all have our style and noone should judge
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'We all have our style'? I thought the MUSIC embodied the style and it was up each organist to immerse themselves in that style. The trouble with this sick world is that anything goes, everything is beautiful, and everyone has their say about the masterworks of the musical literature. To me, only one thing matters - the composer's intentions - AS EVIDENCED BY EVERY INDICATION IN THE SCORE. If you don't know that, than you're not a musician.
Organ man, i dont see why yopr even commenting. If youve nothing to say about this great man, Virgil, dont comment. And his sexuality had NOTHING to do with his playing.
Unless my history is incorrect, this was Mr. Fox's last Christmas. First of all, he was dealing with cancer during this time and it's wonderful to see a man who is dying able to do what he loves. And be able to do it WELL! I have doubts that you are that great of an organist to be able to critique him. He was a master of his craft, and I have yet to hear ANYONE that can play better that he did. So do us all a favor, keep your negative comments to yourself.
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If you 'have yet to hear ANYONE that can play better than he did' then you must not listen to much organ playing. I hasten to add that it is not unusual to be dying - it happens every day. As for doing you 'all' a favor, that is simply not possible. I only do favors for those who are my close associates. That, of course, does not include imperfect strangers.
The ramble between verses two and three shows a man who has NO ability whatever to extemporise in a given style. He gets completely stuck in the most inane harmonies and doesn't have a clue how to get out of them. The final verse - in the untenable key of C major - is atrocious. It's that simple.
This man was a great player ,those who decry him are usually people who cannot play or play badly and are really jealous of someone who makes the organ the king of instruments,
As Virgil once said, "Purists are those who talk about it and can't do it." I agree wholly and openly invite organman52 to post a video demonstrating his virtuosity on Youtube. Then perhaps we can evaluate his playing capabilities or even better compare them to Fox's.
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And are we to assume that it's true just because God Almighty said it?
As for 'my virtuosity' - what does that have to do with Fox's? Answer - NOTHING. You are a sheople - one attribute of which is to go through life COMPARING one to another. The fact is, there should BE no comparison - IF THE COMPOSER'S INTENTIONS ARE FOREMOST.
Sheesh, I hope you have a better year ahead. As far as I know, no one alive has heard J.F. Wade playing - this hymn tune or otherwise. If there is only one narrow historical parameter for performance why should anyone play anything? Did Karl Richter play the same as Marie Claire Alain? I'm not defending anyone but who is in charge of assigning the composer's inprimateur to a performance?
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Thanks, but my 'year' has been a most productive one, and I plan to continue in that vain. And thank goodness Richter and Alain don't play the same way - Richter is an utter fool and Alain is mangificent. Why? Because Alain OBSERVES THE COMPOSER'S INDICATIONS and Richter does not.
I realised that, reading the comments under hear, it is the purists who've always scared me. I know I can make a piece sound very well, but I'm frightened of the nitpickers who will find fault at every turn, and so I'm musically timid and cowardly. Much like Bruckner in that respect, actually, though perhaps without the former's genius.
The ramble between verses two and three shows a man who has NO ability whatever to extemporise in a given style. He gets completely stuck in the most inane harmonies and doesn't have a clue how to get out of them. The final verse - in the untenable key of C major - is atrocious. It's that simple.
Virgil Fox always produces great athmosphere. I like his surprising modulations. No piece of him not to learn something new in creation and technics. Only few musicians have this force.
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His 'surprising' modulations are nothing more than whimsy - they are not based on sound musical structure, and thus, make no sense. If you like them, however, they still make no sense. Nor do you.
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To start in the key of B major, and then move down to A major is ridiculous. But because it is the great Virgil Fox, such a nonsensical modulation is perfectly okay, right?
What better way to sum that up, other than to say WOW! I love his enthusiasm, I only wish everyone could experience it!...Sitting at that bench on Christmas Eve, playing for a full congregation, with people singing at the top of their lungs!!! It really doesn't get any better than this........
His style fits this piece perfectly. The interlude going into the final broadened verse and right to the end is amazing.
Say what you want about this performer. Right here in this song, he shines incredibly...just listen to the sound and ignore his body movements if that bothers you. Absolutely breathtaking!
I usually don't move much when playing the organ, but on this piece, I LOVE THE WAY VIRGIL MOVED WITH THE MUSIC. He was one with organ, music, congregation, and I think worship. I saw the look on his face at the end of the hymn. To play this on Christmas with a full congregation, and full chorus makes me want to leave the bench and kneel in adoration. I had the same feeling watching this. Trite - to you and 52, perhaps, but I really feel sorry you missed out.
This has got to be one of the best organists since J.S. Bach, and the best interpretation of Adeste Fideles that has ever been performed on the king of instruments!
Shakespeare wrote it, " Much ado about nothing". Those are shameless unmusical modulations. Pity he didn't adapt the smooth ones of Richard Wagner. The applause says it all, a flamboyant exercise in bad taste.
The modulations are ridiculous. The next thing you know, they will be singing each verse of a Schubert song in a different key. And why not? In this 'anything goes' sick world, no one can do injustice to a work of art - after all, it's OUR property.
Which key was Adeste Fideles originally written in, and would all of those hymnal versions not be variations? Fox's enthusiasm had thousands of people singing to a simple christmas carol in a way modern churches would envy. To my thinking music is human emotion brought to living presence for complete communication between musician, composer and listener. Orf's Carmina Burana does that, Wagner's operas do that, and, yes, Fox's showmanship does that, even with a simple hymn. 5 stars.
None of what you say here addresses any of the issues I rasied in my comment. But don't you know - that's the TYPICAL approach when the truth is told to an admirer - just skirt the issue and try [unsuccessfully] to justify the nonsense of this youtube.
Another comment hidden. Oh well, here it is again, and it will be posted and reposted every time it gets hidden...
The modulations are ridiculous. The next thing you know, they will be singing each verse of a Schubert song in a different key. And why not? In this 'anything goes' sick world, no one can do injustice to a work of art - after all, it's OUR property.
And, I suppose, if it is one's desire to 'evoke' fanfare and bodily gyration, then why should they be stopped? LET them make fools out of themselves, LET them be irreverent to the greater cause, and LET them be full of themselves. As for me, I can play with just as much excitement [of course you're not going to believe that without proof] WITHOUT all the extraneous nonsense.
Have you never heard of playing with the joy of simply playing? Jesus, I can play an orchestral snare piece, and be just as stiff and formal as anyone, but I can also get behind my hybrid drum kit and play with the abandond of a death metal drummer, and love it! (It is how I get my arobic workout.) I guess that you would say that someone could play the exact drum part that I do behind my yamis with no movement besides their arms and feet. How boring.
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It is your right to believe whatever you wish. So keep believing this playing is excellent. I, on the other hand, condemn it totally, and condemn you as well for endorsing it - NOT that you give a rat's ass.
I think, everyone can play the way he wants to! But there´s one thing about this man playing here: he can make a community sing and can lead their singing perfectly! The art about playin the organ is not hunting down toccatas of jsbach oder cmwidor or something linke that, the most finest art in playing the organ is leading a singing community, and there are not many people who are able to do so!
Funny you should ask. In one of my recent magazine reviews, I began by asking the question "What makes a perfect performance, if such a performance exists?" I then went on to convey my feeling that the performer in question, the great instrument and acoustic, and most of all, the magnificence of the music itself all combined to create such a performance.
If you are talking church, I disagree. It is the congregation. When the Spirit moves and they join, one forgets about all instruments besides the human voices raised in praise. One always remembers those moments.
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According to you, only 'spiritual' people can appreciate music. But what about all the atheists out there? Can't THEY appreciate a Bach Cantata or a Beethoven Symphony?
I was not able to SEE the performer, as it was a CD I was reviewing. I suspect that he was not gyrating all over the place, but rather, appeared poised. Why? Because the playing brought absolutely NOTHING to the music that was not already there in the score, as indicated by the composer. I did not hear any 'interpretation' or any of the performer's 'self.' All I heard was the gorgeous music, celebrated by an intelligent performer on an astounding organ - one who knows the music is perfect.
Is it possible that it IS the glory of the great music that moved Virgil to "gyrate" and be the "showman" he was? I believe that's exactly what we're seeing here. A truly gifted musician being moved by a great piece of music, and taking everyone in the room along for the "trip". I think it's pretty clear that's what's happening here. Anyone who could condemn this, or worse, someone else for enjoying it...well...I don't know where you're from, or what you've been listening to. It's that simple.
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And you shall never know 'where I'm from.' Did you ever hear of a CULT? That's what you're witnessing here, my friend. And to call 'Adeste Fidelis'a 'great piece of music' reveals exactly what your standards are. It is a fine hymn, indeed, but a GREAT piece of music? Hardly. I happen to know that it is possible to generate excitement WITHOUT the gyrations and WITHOUT a famous name. That too, is that simple.
I am perfectly well aware that there are many "greater" pieces of music out there than a hymn. But we're talking about a hymn. Compare apples to apples. I'm not going to sit here and argue with someone who dares to take Virgil Fox to task on anything, even in death. As he would have said, you can sit there any play with your typewriter...what gives you the right to judge? And why so narrow-minded, anyway? That's the very thing that keeps the organ out of the public eye to the extent it is.
'Dares'? Who do you think this man was - God almighty? He had a cult following of prima donna organ enthusiasts, aka, a bunch of faggots. It's that simple.
Now we get to the crux of Organman52's issue. He is a homophobe.
Shame actually, Virgil was a wonderful muscian. The object of music is to bring pleasure to the listener, not for the Organman52s of the world to write doctorial thesis about. Please do not sarcastically ask me if I play the organ, I do not. I play drums, but I love all music and instruments, particularly Mr. Fox and the king of instruments.
Obviously, someone DOES give a rat's ass - that's why the comment got hidden. Well, here it is again for a while...
It is your right to believe whatever you wish. So keep believing this playing is excellent. I, on the other hand, condemn it totally, and condemn you as well for endorsing it - NOT that you give a rat's ass.
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I am simply trying to say that I have a strong dislike for showmanship. In my view, the only person to be celebrated is the master composer. The performer is secondary. I have been a performer all my life, and believe that music IS joy. There is never a moment in great music that lacks joy. I studied with a world famous teacher 35 years ago in France, and it was this teacher who said: 'What is done without joy is ZERO'. It didn't take long for me to realize how right that statement is.
Mr Organma52 there is no doubt if you could play like Virgil Fox you would not be so full of your self. "I this I that I the other" your criticism reeks of jealousy and envy. My word are you full of yourself and more than likely nothing else.
I absolutely love this reckless perfection!!!!
gr8u2bing 2 weeks ago
My all time favorite hymn! Doesn't get any better that powerful organ played by a true master with choir! Thanks Virgil! You are sorely missed!
dc10driver1 2 weeks ago
This is an epic rendition of one of my favourite christmas hymns, Virgil Fox was the man. R.I.P.
BigBadBizzle1 2 weeks ago
Heard and owned many of his records, but I never got to see a live performance. He is the touchstone against whom all other organists are measured. What a Christmas treat to hear him again.
banjo9052 1 month ago
If this were the only surviving video of the man, it would suffice. Showman? Yes. Showy? Sure. Talented? More than words. He CLEARLY loved the music. He loved to lift other with his music.Would that people could say such about me when I'm gone. He let us hear God. Need I say more? Thanks to whoever for this post.
Beeglemon 1 month ago
The man had TALENT and brought joy to many. Would that we could all say that second part about our lives. I saw him perform and love listening to anyone who loves to get out of a pipe organ what he could!
Beeglemon 1 month ago
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bookbusband 2 months ago
Ohhh!!! to be Virgil... How fantastic he was. I wish I have known him in this life.
k999998 7 months ago
Oh to be Virgil... How fantastic he was. I wish I have known him in this life.
k999998 7 months ago
Saw and heard Virgil twice in my life, heard him many times on recordings (he recorded 54) and videos, the one thing that Virgil had that is a rare commodity today is stage presence. He got you excited about what he was going to play and very much involved his audience. Yes, there are many orgnists just as good but they lack that spiritual excitement. Carlo Curley, folllow Virgil around for 10 yrs. was told by Virgil that there was little he could teach him, but he could give him stage presence.
09WestTexas 9 months ago
he loves playing the organ
chrisverhaagh 10 months ago
virgil fox was probaly an amazing player. since im only 14 never got to meat or hear him in real life. heard some of his recordings. virgil was very good but i think paul jacobs, ken cowan, and felix hell would give him a run for his money
notredameswarrior1 10 months ago
oh.come let us adore Him,Christ,the Lord
garebear1015 1 year ago
I am a fairly inexperienced pianist and organist but I can't even begin to fathom what it takes to be able to conduct and play at the same time, he truly was talanted
Lucian690 1 year ago
WOW
that is all i can say
pmj007 1 year ago
I so miss him!
georgepickett 1 year ago
He was simply the best there was, and we'll never see another like him in our life time. And I don't care whose video you post playing this, no one can do it better.
bige002000 1 year ago
The Liberace of the pipe organ! Love him!
Bce123123 1 year ago
Thank God we still videos of Virgil.
beapa1 1 year ago
now this is church
noodleJim 1 year ago 2
What awesome talent. I remember my Dad taking me to Lake Junaluska in the 70's to hear Mr. Fox. I thought (as a kid) this is going to be boring!! But I can remember the first song he played with the Lake Junaluska singers, "What Child is This" & the last song was "To God Be the Glory". What passion & power I felt with every note. It was a moving experience for me at age 6.
GGBundy 1 year ago
I saw him play live at Queens College in New York circa 1970's I was a young teen. He was playing a Rodgers Theater organ from that time. I was in awe and he became my organist hero. He used every bit of the organ to express his deep spiritual commitment to his faith. I believe he also played at Riverside Chapel in New York too.
theorganloft 1 year ago
@theorganloft He was the organist at Riverside Church in Manhattan 1946-1965.
bhigdaddymark 1 year ago
Does anyone know where I can get this arrangement?
Maxbay89 1 year ago
Glory to God! Such an incredible performance by Virgil Fox. I love how he transposes the hymn for each verse - and in the last verse, the congregation is singing so gorgeously! As an organist myself - Virgil Fox puts an incredible amount of expression and feeling into his playing. The Lord blessed this man with such marvelous talent - and Virgil Fox used it for the glory of God. That is why I think of this man as amazing. Cameron Carpenter plays nothing to the glory of God.
FirstMrTornado 1 year ago 2
Well, maybe he can play the organ, maybe he can;t, there's not enough here to tell, but anyone who has had even themost rudimentary instruction at the instrument has been told that accurate playing requires one keeps one's head and shoulders STILL. Bouncing around like a beachball probably wouldn't stop an otherwise good organist from playing what is, after all, only an hymn, however reharmonised, with reasonable panache, but it wouldn;t serve for serious Bach, no way! Bad example !!
mcheckley 1 year ago
@mcheckley JERK, you talentless bastard.....FOX Ruled.....ansd still does in my book
sweatsjock 1 year ago
@sweatsjock
Quite right - great performers will always attract jealous nobodies who try and cut them down. And what the hell has sexuality got to do with any of it?
RupertW1 1 year ago 2
@mcheckley When you are at the top of your profession, you can change the norm. For example, Shakespeare was able to create new words. You and I can't do that b/c we have no credibility to stand upon. So check your analysis youngster!
kyun1252 1 year ago
@mcheckley Virgil Fox could play (and he did) ANYTHING and from memory at that. He also played every note accurately. One doesn't have to sit there like a stiff to play. As evidenced here, he was really into it. Virgil could've been jogging while at the console and he wouldn't have missed a note, and it would've been exciting to watch. He was a master at Bach right thru Dupre, and he played every piece from memory. All of the other chump can't play for crap boring organists are still jealous>>>
bhigdaddymark 1 year ago
@mcheckley of him 30 years after his death. He was the greatest organist of the 20th Century bar none. He exposed the organ to a much greater audience than any other organist then, now, living or dead. I wish that I had the talent that he had as well as the expertise that he had. Jealous ass-holes also criticized Liberace, but he certainly could play the piano like no ones business didn't he? Yeah, none of the haters could out play Virgil, they only wish that they could. Jealous ass-wipes....
bhigdaddymark 1 year ago
@mcheckley And BTW Virgil Fox hater, I just checked your channel. How did I know that you're not a musician muchless an organist. It's always you guys with the biggest mouths criticizing everyone else and also from the U.K. where you haven't any organists worth a shit (on the level of Virgil) other than David Briggs. You're just another old hater without any credibility, but loads of worthless opinions. Go to your local church on Sunday to watch that organist play all stiff like a corpse....
bhigdaddymark 1 year ago
once in a lifetime performance? or outstanding performance in history? Great chromatics and Great interactive between musician and audience.
Ianthe22 1 year ago
Make a joyful noise!
SyvetheShairks 2 years ago
WHAT AND WHERE is this organ?
commatrix1 2 years ago
Fratelli Ruffatti. Italian Organ manufacturer. Located then in what is now a conference hall, formerly the main worship hall until the Crystal Church was built
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
@DavidSnyderLumierist this was at the Crystal Cathedral then?
AllenOrganCrazy 1 year ago
Virgil Fox and(,with a little assistance from me!) intigrated the pipe work from the original Ruffatti,into the new,enlarged organ. Also came the pipe work from his home in Englewood containing the 4 manual EM Skinner from the Old South Church in Boston, which we rescued and in addition many additional ranks of Ruffatti and others were added to form what you almost hear now on tv if you can get past the tin horns. That original console may still exist, I do not know
DavidSnyderLumierist 1 year ago
@commatrix1 North Phoenix Baptist Church. It's an Austin organ I believe. I'm not sure that it gets a whole lot of use anymore, sadly.
caddyorganist 1 year ago
Virgils religious beliefs are legend. Listenting to this on Christmas day is a real joy. Peace and love to all who share this glorious day. Gary
guilfordin 2 years ago 2
Some of you folks are getting way too "techy" here with all this. GEEEEZZZZZZZ!!!! I love the organ & respect all it's players. I play & had my own "church version" organ in my home for years. I GAVE it to a student 3 years ago. It will blast your hair off & your windows out....LOL. But for me... I WANT to HEAR the FOOT pedal bass sound & clearly & not a thrumb of mush. So who ever's side that goes to have fun with it. Cripes!
deenap1 2 years ago
Virgil Fox was one of the greatest organists ever. His expressions and movements during a performance occur because he actually feels the music in his soul. His body is reacting to the music with every fiber of his being. If you look close you will see his reactions are greater the more profound the music. We will not see or hear the likes of him anytime soon. Thank God for recordings.
Donstubewatch 2 years ago
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!
Donstubewatch 2 years ago
Somehow after seeing and hearing this stunning Christmas Hymn,,"Happy Holidays" just doesn't seem to cut it does it? Go wish someone Merry Christmas,,I dare you. God Bless
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
Joyeux Noel David!!! and NOLLAG DHUIT!
God Bless.
tenor175 2 years ago
I thought it was very good! Would have loved to have been there to sing along and feel the rumble of the organ in my body...very nice job!
plojr19 2 years ago
P.S.
It looks like Organman52 was just outed. Funny, whenever I think of the name 'Organman', the most interesting visuals come up...
Oh, and BTW organman, I will agree with you on one point; I don't give a rat's ass what you think...
Peace,
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago
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Raffallos1411 2 years ago
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Raffallos1411 2 years ago
I feel that he is up in heaven playing for the heavenly choirs. How inspiring. That just made my day!
maxscriptguru 2 years ago 2
@maxscriptguru
God Bless you my friend,,I trust so to. He was a devout Christian.
DavidSnyderRevelationLights
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
Want to hear an AMAZING arrangement of this carol like you've never heard before on the Pipe Organ? Check out the YouTube video: "O Come With A Penny Whistle and Jig ... All Ye Faithful" - Aaron Robinson on the "Mighty Immanuel" organ. Virgil would be proud ...
Dizzyfingers2 2 years ago
Never I heard good harmony so Professionalism! !!! GOOD WERRY GOOD!
akordion150 2 years ago
WOW,
einfach geil!!
Octavkoppel1 2 years ago
I am looking for The Album A Virgil Fox Christmas. I used to have it years ago but would like another copy. Anyone know where to find it?
ryohnthegymfan 2 years ago
If you can tell me the label and the proper name, I'll see if I can find it for you,,but can't promise.
Thanks for your note Blessings!
DavidSnyderLumierist 1 year ago
Virgil Fox was one of a kind. His musicianship was SUPERB and his skill on the organ will never be surpassed. He brought organ music to LIFE! He is missed.
rjaustingrt 2 years ago
Thank you and bless you my friend. I miss him to and countless of others through whom his hard work lives on.Perhaps someday I will release the Helden Library. We have a number of unpublished works ready to bring forth.
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
Rest in Peace Virgil I miss you - Thank you for all you have taught me and being my friend. Lance †
organpipe8 2 years ago 2
Thank you friend for taking the time to write. Bless you indeed.
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
thank you Lance. We miss him too. Our heart will never heal. Thanks for careing and for your note. Blessings
DavidSnyderLumierist 1 year ago
That is how a pipe organ should be played!!!!!!!!! Thanks for the post.
patt30521111 2 years ago 3
Wow...just wow! He's not just celebrating the music - he's "living" every single note of it. Virgil Fox is really stunning...
Pleiades1432 2 years ago 3
Oh no, Organman, I am no master...
I leave that profession to you.
I do know good musicianship when I hear it, and though maybe not a constipated purist like you, Virgil was one excellent organist.
Oh, by the way, your comment about 'queen of organists' was as repugnant as you.
Peace,
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago
I think I might have figured out who organman is, Michael Murray. The timeline is right for studying in France, he studied with Marcel Dupre. You see Michael and I both studied organ under Dr. Mallory Bransford of Indianapolis (Who was a HUGE Virgil Fox Fan AND friend). I have attended 2 master classes Micheal put on and in both classes made little snide comments about Virgil Fox. Michael, if it is you, Mallory would be so disappointed in you! You are NO Virgil Fox.
ohboyflyboy 2 years ago 4
@ohboyflyboy
Yes, I do hope OM52 does find peace somewhere. I used to be a metal drummer, played in a band, (with wild showmanship) and had a blast. Played for the sheer JOY of playing. (Yes OM52, I said the JOY of playing).
I do not perform anymore due to a serious heart issue, but I still play jazz at home, (for the JOY of it), record and listen to V FOX, metal, C and W, as well as Bach.
OM52 just seems so angry. I cant imagin going through life like that.
Peace,
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago
@ohboyflyboy
Virgil Fox never put on any "movements"He used every fiber of his being in playing the instrument.What you see came from his very being. He never attempted nor tried to add flare with body language. Playing and controling a pipe organ console is a great human athletic feat unlike any other instrument.
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
I have attended 2 recitals by Michael Murray in Indianapolis at Zion Evangelical United Church of Christ (where he and I took lessons from Dr. Bransford) and I have a few of his CD's. While technically almost flawless, his registrations and interpretations are boring. I know from Dr. Bransford that Marcel Dupre (who Virgil also studied under) always taught to sit upright and not make any moves at the console that were not required.
ohboyflyboy 2 years ago 2
When one really thinks about it, Marcel Dupre and Virgil Fox had little comparables. At Virgils first lesson with him and after he had placed a book on"how to" in front of the young student he snatched it off and slammed the book shut after the student played the pedal scales at a breathtaking speed in every key of the scale,faster than he had ever seen. In addition Dr Fox did not improvise which was perhaps the genius in Marcel, who also did not hand register the console as did Dr. Fox
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
As Virgil would always say "in order to break the rules, you have to KNOW the rules", and that Virgil did. I would count Virgil's success by the hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of lives he touched through his organ playing. He was a one of a kind, a true American original, a musician of unequaled talent. Pleiades1432 said it best, he was "living" every single note of the music. He was a man of God and it showed in his playing. Thank You God for Virgil Fox!
ohboyflyboy 2 years ago 2
On behalf of the American Guild of Organists, thanks for this post.
My father whom served as a regional & National Councillor and National President, presented Mr. Fox, with a President's Award many years ago.
I have only heard his music and believe me, he was a great organist.
Now I carry the same traditions as my father, I am a Regional Councillor and hold nomination to the National Council and National Presidents office.
To be an organist, is not about what lifestyle, it is about music.
ARFRC1 2 years ago 3
Ah, but I do know what it is like to be left out because of what I am. I came of age in the mid to late seventies, and I do know what discrimination based on orientation is all about... and not having anything like the internet to connect with other young people like myself.
I was merely commenting on the fact that anyone can bring glory to God (and I am a Buddhist), no matter whether they are gay or het.
I meant no offense.
Peace,
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago
I would add that it really does not matter whether or not someone is gay...either way, this hymn brings glory to the Creator as It is known to the Christian faith.
...And I can only imagine that right now, he is one of the master organists in the Heavenly realms...and I can only imagine the power of those 64' bombards....
Peace...
amourdutigre 2 years ago
Thank you friend,but dont be upset at Virgil being slandered, he was used to that. Perhaps that why the tongue is called the slide to HELL
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
If there is a heaven, Virgil is in it.
Good luck, pal.
LorinTone 2 years ago
I havce always adored the hymn playing of Virgil Fox and have used his stylings to inspire my own spirited hymn playing. Hymns should be played with spirit, fire and fury so the praises can rech the highest heaven
tweety11826 2 years ago 5
Virgil Fox would tell you I am sure to play to the Glory of God. It will be "spirited" I promise
God Bless you friend
DavidSnyderLumierist 2 years ago
I knew Virgil Fox. Not well, but I knew him. Virgil brought more classical music to the young of this world by accident than any other organist had done in the 20th century on purpose. And, gay or straight, black or white, God whispered in this man's ears. I know it.
BobTheWhistler 2 years ago
which organ is this ?
ArieVisker 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Hymns and carols are supposed to be to the Glory pf God, not of manipulative organists with oversized heads.
1401JSC 2 years ago
Is it not God who gave mankind the gift of sound? Why be so negative toward someone who loves so dearly the gift that God gave humanity?
mpmcd81 2 years ago
...goosebumps...
eccentricorgan 2 years ago 3
Outstanding Fox gives the great organ it's greatness.
1940djb 2 years ago 3
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ugly is the word
ar10willard 2 years ago
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to
ar10willard: your mother is ugly
Sesquiltera 2 years ago
Virgil Fox at his best! I never thought I would EVER see such a video! I bought all his recordings 30 (or was it 40) years ago. This is just SO good. Ecstatic.
classy8888 2 years ago
omg that was absolutely amazing!!!
javajo46 2 years ago
I second that!
burningbeing 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Where?
When?
Organ?
Alain is sometimes boring.
Her Gigue Fugue is "perfect" and sounds like an organ exercise.
robertgift 3 years ago
Organman52...post a video of yourself playing this same hymn...and we'll all vote to see who is better...as far as I'm concerned you reek of jealousy and envy...you talk a great game but you obviously don't have the guts to show anyone your playing or lack of playing maybe...what's the matter are we scared to go against Virgil Fox...He's better than you...get over it
rightwingnut1981 3 years ago 12
Comment removed
advisorC101 3 years ago
Believe me, I know organman52 and he CAN PLAY! I might not agree with him on allot of things but he is a FANTASTIC organist!
codeman2008 2 years ago
@rightwingnut1981 - This organman52 spends most of his time attacking Cameron Carpenter, using language straight out of the gutter.
silverstartrucker 1 year ago
I'm not a religious man but I go to church to listen to the organ and I even play myself but on wednesday christmas eve when I heard my teacher play this it ripped all the sorrow of my body. I know that Virgil did put alot of show into his performances and sometimes go a little to far by what others say but for once can we just listen and if we don't have anything nice to say instead say nothing?
advisorC101 3 years ago 3
Organman52 I know what you're going on about but really it's not worth it wasting your time dropping all these comments after all everyone has their own interpretations and I'm no master myself but I'll say one thing if the organist can truly become one with his instrument then let him be.
advisorC101 3 years ago
Virgil my friend - Jesus is enjoying your company with him you faithful servant ♫
organpipe8 3 years ago 3
Any profissional organist can play it.
and yes, somewhere in the video he played some kind of a confused interlude.
geheimnisvolle 3 years ago
That's EPIC!
Jippieheihe 3 years ago
Stupefacente!!! Ottimo! Bravissimo l'organista e bravo il coro!!!
simonegnt91 3 years ago
Organman...give it a rest already...seriously, your opinion is your right, but all I see is this barrage of sladerous comments from you, and Fox isn't even alive to defend himself. I think you have a serious issue here, and it isn't with Virgil Fox's playing. We're all tired of it. Drop it already.
Organsk8er 3 years ago
Sorry, no can do.
organman52 3 years ago
Moderately nice but not excellent as some call it
Yakes888 3 years ago
It would be interesting to see what kind of pipe organ he is playing on in heaven. It must be quite an instrument for quite an organist that he was while here with us.
bikdav 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Heaven? Are there several organbuilders there and Mr. Fox got to choose one of them? How do you know it's not a 45-year old Allen?
organman52 3 years ago
Certainly St. Cecilia must have someone to build the organ she plays on!
greenspacesforever 2 years ago
what an excellent job he does playing wish i could play as well as he does i mean i know how to play but not like him i play the organ at my church
wreckerguy82 3 years ago
NUNCA VI OU OUVI NADA TÃO LINDO. GOD BLESS YOU, E CONTINUE ASSIM.luiz & SOPHIA BRASIL
organoficialves2008 3 years ago
I agree, posotive is only accepted, im a kid, and i am good at organ playing. I can add showmanship into my playing, and once my friend compared me to virigl and i dissagreed. I can play in his style, but, im not as good. He is unimatatable, as am i, and any single organist. We all have our style and noone should judge
Montefusco1 3 years ago
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'We all have our style'? I thought the MUSIC embodied the style and it was up each organist to immerse themselves in that style. The trouble with this sick world is that anything goes, everything is beautiful, and everyone has their say about the masterworks of the musical literature. To me, only one thing matters - the composer's intentions - AS EVIDENCED BY EVERY INDICATION IN THE SCORE. If you don't know that, than you're not a musician.
organman52 3 years ago
Organ man, i dont see why yopr even commenting. If youve nothing to say about this great man, Virgil, dont comment. And his sexuality had NOTHING to do with his playing.
Montefusco1 3 years ago
Dear organman52,
Unless my history is incorrect, this was Mr. Fox's last Christmas. First of all, he was dealing with cancer during this time and it's wonderful to see a man who is dying able to do what he loves. And be able to do it WELL! I have doubts that you are that great of an organist to be able to critique him. He was a master of his craft, and I have yet to hear ANYONE that can play better that he did. So do us all a favor, keep your negative comments to yourself.
tbonelegs 3 years ago 6
This comment has received too many negative votes show
If you 'have yet to hear ANYONE that can play better than he did' then you must not listen to much organ playing. I hasten to add that it is not unusual to be dying - it happens every day. As for doing you 'all' a favor, that is simply not possible. I only do favors for those who are my close associates. That, of course, does not include imperfect strangers.
organman52 3 years ago
do your "CLOSE ASSOCIATES" happen to be rim raders?
Sentfromheaven87 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Whatever that means, it sounds sick. But coming from you, that is no surprise, you loser.
organman52 3 years ago
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The ramble between verses two and three shows a man who has NO ability whatever to extemporise in a given style. He gets completely stuck in the most inane harmonies and doesn't have a clue how to get out of them. The final verse - in the untenable key of C major - is atrocious. It's that simple.
organman52 3 years ago
This man was a great player ,those who decry him are usually people who cannot play or play badly and are really jealous of someone who makes the organ the king of instruments,
winsym03 3 years ago 4
As Virgil once said, "Purists are those who talk about it and can't do it." I agree wholly and openly invite organman52 to post a video demonstrating his virtuosity on Youtube. Then perhaps we can evaluate his playing capabilities or even better compare them to Fox's.
cromorne 3 years ago 8
As he said in that very clip, "a poop on one end, and a poop on the other"...LOL
Organsk8er 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
And are we to assume that it's true just because God Almighty said it?
As for 'my virtuosity' - what does that have to do with Fox's? Answer - NOTHING. You are a sheople - one attribute of which is to go through life COMPARING one to another. The fact is, there should BE no comparison - IF THE COMPOSER'S INTENTIONS ARE FOREMOST.
organman52 3 years ago
Sheesh, I hope you have a better year ahead. As far as I know, no one alive has heard J.F. Wade playing - this hymn tune or otherwise. If there is only one narrow historical parameter for performance why should anyone play anything? Did Karl Richter play the same as Marie Claire Alain? I'm not defending anyone but who is in charge of assigning the composer's inprimateur to a performance?
cnmmnc8852 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Thanks, but my 'year' has been a most productive one, and I plan to continue in that vain. And thank goodness Richter and Alain don't play the same way - Richter is an utter fool and Alain is mangificent. Why? Because Alain OBSERVES THE COMPOSER'S INDICATIONS and Richter does not.
organman52 3 years ago
Virgil also said,"Purists are barnacles on the ship of music".
oktalp 2 years ago
Haha! How true.
cromorne 2 years ago
I realised that, reading the comments under hear, it is the purists who've always scared me. I know I can make a piece sound very well, but I'm frightened of the nitpickers who will find fault at every turn, and so I'm musically timid and cowardly. Much like Bruckner in that respect, actually, though perhaps without the former's genius.
NihilNominis 2 years ago
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Gee I wonder why my comment got hidden?...
The ramble between verses two and three shows a man who has NO ability whatever to extemporise in a given style. He gets completely stuck in the most inane harmonies and doesn't have a clue how to get out of them. The final verse - in the untenable key of C major - is atrocious. It's that simple.
organman52 3 years ago
Virgil Fox always produces great athmosphere. I like his surprising modulations. No piece of him not to learn something new in creation and technics. Only few musicians have this force.
JoachimEssig 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
His 'surprising' modulations are nothing more than whimsy - they are not based on sound musical structure, and thus, make no sense. If you like them, however, they still make no sense. Nor do you.
organman52 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
To start in the key of B major, and then move down to A major is ridiculous. But because it is the great Virgil Fox, such a nonsensical modulation is perfectly okay, right?
organman52 3 years ago
Perfect......The best hymn ive herd from him......Il be playing this at X-Mas for my Churches Christmans Mass
Montefusco1 3 years ago
What better way to sum that up, other than to say WOW! I love his enthusiasm, I only wish everyone could experience it!...Sitting at that bench on Christmas Eve, playing for a full congregation, with people singing at the top of their lungs!!! It really doesn't get any better than this........
dzradiodr 3 years ago 5
His style fits this piece perfectly. The interlude going into the final broadened verse and right to the end is amazing.
Say what you want about this performer. Right here in this song, he shines incredibly...just listen to the sound and ignore his body movements if that bothers you. Absolutely breathtaking!
extinctionism 3 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
too many movements for my taste.
organboi 3 years ago
I usually don't move much when playing the organ, but on this piece, I LOVE THE WAY VIRGIL MOVED WITH THE MUSIC. He was one with organ, music, congregation, and I think worship. I saw the look on his face at the end of the hymn. To play this on Christmas with a full congregation, and full chorus makes me want to leave the bench and kneel in adoration. I had the same feeling watching this. Trite - to you and 52, perhaps, but I really feel sorry you missed out.
greenspacesforever 3 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Yes - you go and 'kneel in adoration'. Ignorance is bliss.
organman52 3 years ago
He made the wise to be fools, and fools to be wise.....
greenspacesforever 2 years ago
this looks like the organ at North Phoenix Baptist church, is that possible?
azapachekid 3 years ago
I just love Virgel Fox's Christmas music, he will always be the greatest organist in my eyes
soccercleatscrush 3 years ago
I play hymns in this manner and my parish loves it. They love all the modulations. It adds something to the music and it gets people singing!
CoutureOrganiste 3 years ago
This has got to be one of the best organists since J.S. Bach, and the best interpretation of Adeste Fideles that has ever been performed on the king of instruments!
Bravo!
ADT
amourdutigre 3 years ago
Virgil Fox, The Greatest Organist of the Twenthieth Century! Forever lives in our hearts and minds!!
peaceyo100 3 years ago
Shakespeare wrote it, " Much ado about nothing". Those are shameless unmusical modulations. Pity he didn't adapt the smooth ones of Richard Wagner. The applause says it all, a flamboyant exercise in bad taste.
yamaho5 3 years ago
The modulations are ridiculous. The next thing you know, they will be singing each verse of a Schubert song in a different key. And why not? In this 'anything goes' sick world, no one can do injustice to a work of art - after all, it's OUR property.
This man is right up there with Glenn Gould.
tyfardee 3 years ago
Which key was Adeste Fideles originally written in, and would all of those hymnal versions not be variations? Fox's enthusiasm had thousands of people singing to a simple christmas carol in a way modern churches would envy. To my thinking music is human emotion brought to living presence for complete communication between musician, composer and listener. Orf's Carmina Burana does that, Wagner's operas do that, and, yes, Fox's showmanship does that, even with a simple hymn. 5 stars.
studio417 3 years ago
None of what you say here addresses any of the issues I rasied in my comment. But don't you know - that's the TYPICAL approach when the truth is told to an admirer - just skirt the issue and try [unsuccessfully] to justify the nonsense of this youtube.
tyfardee 3 years ago
Super! I am thrilled to know my enthusiasm for Virgil Fox is TYPICAL!!
Thanks!
Marlin Mackley
studio417 3 years ago
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Another comment hidden. Oh well, here it is again, and it will be posted and reposted every time it gets hidden...
The modulations are ridiculous. The next thing you know, they will be singing each verse of a Schubert song in a different key. And why not? In this 'anything goes' sick world, no one can do injustice to a work of art - after all, it's OUR property.
organman52 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
All this fanfare and bodily gyration over a simple Christmas hymn? Thanks, but I'll pass.
tyfardee 3 years ago
It takes genius to evoke "all this fanfare and bodily gyration" from such simplicity.
Fryderyk104 3 years ago
It takes genius to evoke "all this fanfare and bodily gyration" from such simplicity.
Fryderyk104 3 years ago
And, I suppose, if it is one's desire to 'evoke' fanfare and bodily gyration, then why should they be stopped? LET them make fools out of themselves, LET them be irreverent to the greater cause, and LET them be full of themselves. As for me, I can play with just as much excitement [of course you're not going to believe that without proof] WITHOUT all the extraneous nonsense.
organman52 3 years ago
Have you never heard of playing with the joy of simply playing? Jesus, I can play an orchestral snare piece, and be just as stiff and formal as anyone, but I can also get behind my hybrid drum kit and play with the abandond of a death metal drummer, and love it! (It is how I get my arobic workout.) I guess that you would say that someone could play the exact drum part that I do behind my yamis with no movement besides their arms and feet. How boring.
ADT
amourdutigre 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
It is your right to believe whatever you wish. So keep believing this playing is excellent. I, on the other hand, condemn it totally, and condemn you as well for endorsing it - NOT that you give a rat's ass.
organman52 3 years ago
What´s excellent for you?
I think, everyone can play the way he wants to! But there´s one thing about this man playing here: he can make a community sing and can lead their singing perfectly! The art about playin the organ is not hunting down toccatas of jsbach oder cmwidor or something linke that, the most finest art in playing the organ is leading a singing community, and there are not many people who are able to do so!
OrganistsVoice 3 years ago
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Funny you should ask. In one of my recent magazine reviews, I began by asking the question "What makes a perfect performance, if such a performance exists?" I then went on to convey my feeling that the performer in question, the great instrument and acoustic, and most of all, the magnificence of the music itself all combined to create such a performance.
continued...
organman52 3 years ago
If you are talking church, I disagree. It is the congregation. When the Spirit moves and they join, one forgets about all instruments besides the human voices raised in praise. One always remembers those moments.
greenspacesforever 3 years ago
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According to you, only 'spiritual' people can appreciate music. But what about all the atheists out there? Can't THEY appreciate a Bach Cantata or a Beethoven Symphony?
organman52 3 years ago
They may be able to appreciate a Berlioz Requiem,since he said that he didn't believe in either God or Bach. Or perhaps, anything by Daniel Pinkham.
polgarfan 3 years ago
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I was not able to SEE the performer, as it was a CD I was reviewing. I suspect that he was not gyrating all over the place, but rather, appeared poised. Why? Because the playing brought absolutely NOTHING to the music that was not already there in the score, as indicated by the composer. I did not hear any 'interpretation' or any of the performer's 'self.' All I heard was the gorgeous music, celebrated by an intelligent performer on an astounding organ - one who knows the music is perfect.
organman52 3 years ago
Is it possible that it IS the glory of the great music that moved Virgil to "gyrate" and be the "showman" he was? I believe that's exactly what we're seeing here. A truly gifted musician being moved by a great piece of music, and taking everyone in the room along for the "trip". I think it's pretty clear that's what's happening here. Anyone who could condemn this, or worse, someone else for enjoying it...well...I don't know where you're from, or what you've been listening to. It's that simple.
Organsk8er 3 years ago
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And you shall never know 'where I'm from.' Did you ever hear of a CULT? That's what you're witnessing here, my friend. And to call 'Adeste Fidelis'a 'great piece of music' reveals exactly what your standards are. It is a fine hymn, indeed, but a GREAT piece of music? Hardly. I happen to know that it is possible to generate excitement WITHOUT the gyrations and WITHOUT a famous name. That too, is that simple.
organman52 3 years ago
I am perfectly well aware that there are many "greater" pieces of music out there than a hymn. But we're talking about a hymn. Compare apples to apples. I'm not going to sit here and argue with someone who dares to take Virgil Fox to task on anything, even in death. As he would have said, you can sit there any play with your typewriter...what gives you the right to judge? And why so narrow-minded, anyway? That's the very thing that keeps the organ out of the public eye to the extent it is.
Organsk8er 3 years ago
sorry...*and* play with your typewriter... :-D
Organsk8er 3 years ago
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'Dares'? Who do you think this man was - God almighty? He had a cult following of prima donna organ enthusiasts, aka, a bunch of faggots. It's that simple.
organman52 3 years ago
Don't you have anything better to do than spend your time raving about a dead man? You don't like him. Great. We get it. So shut the fuck up already.
LawdHelp 3 years ago 5
Now we get to the crux of Organman52's issue. He is a homophobe.
Shame actually, Virgil was a wonderful muscian. The object of music is to bring pleasure to the listener, not for the Organman52s of the world to write doctorial thesis about. Please do not sarcastically ask me if I play the organ, I do not. I play drums, but I love all music and instruments, particularly Mr. Fox and the king of instruments.
I hope that Organman52 can find peace somewhere.
Peace,
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago 5
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Whatever you say, master.
organman52 2 years ago
Amen,Amen,Amen .... Alleluia! I loved the way he just naturally lead the congregation in.
greenspacesforever 3 years ago 2
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Obviously, someone DOES give a rat's ass - that's why the comment got hidden. Well, here it is again for a while...
It is your right to believe whatever you wish. So keep believing this playing is excellent. I, on the other hand, condemn it totally, and condemn you as well for endorsing it - NOT that you give a rat's ass.
organman52 3 years ago
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I am simply trying to say that I have a strong dislike for showmanship. In my view, the only person to be celebrated is the master composer. The performer is secondary. I have been a performer all my life, and believe that music IS joy. There is never a moment in great music that lacks joy. I studied with a world famous teacher 35 years ago in France, and it was this teacher who said: 'What is done without joy is ZERO'. It didn't take long for me to realize how right that statement is.
organman52 3 years ago
Mr Organma52 there is no doubt if you could play like Virgil Fox you would not be so full of your self. "I this I that I the other" your criticism reeks of jealousy and envy. My word are you full of yourself and more than likely nothing else.
Reebsbabe 3 years ago 3
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And what on earth gives you the idea that I cannot play 'like Virgil Fox'? You have no idea who I am or what you are talking about.
organman52 3 years ago
If that's a fool for Christ, count me in!
greenspacesforever 3 years ago