My apologies - yes it was Hazel Gravell singing the solo.
As a native of the region I also used to attend the Cathedral Concert series of Tuesday evening recitals at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ when John Rose was music director. My memory transposed Hazel's identity with the soloist Louise Natale (who used to sing with John Rose in Newark, and also with Fred Swann at Riverside). John Rose was and still remains one of Virgil Fox very successful students.
@Fox7Fan Yes, I remember John and Phil Truckenbrod very well. John was a real artist at Sacred Heart during the early years of the Schantz, those long dark years ago. Notwithstanding getting chased around the choir gallery by John, he was a real musician for all seasons during those years there.
As a relativly young Organist (35) I am sad that I missed the "glory years" of the Pipe Organ,or the "King of Instruments" as one gentleman put it. True Musicians like Virgil Fox, and many others are fading fast in our memories. It is up to us to continue to show the current and future generations that the organ is not the insrtument days past but the intrument for all time.
Regardless of how those for or against Virgil feel about him, listen to how loudly and joyously the congregation un this video is singing. That right there is enough testament to how much of an impact Virgil had upon those who listened to his performances.
Yes, this was the final encore and music of that supreme Event in 1979.
And regarding the Aeolian Skinner organ, Frederick Swann was the successor to
Virgil Fox after Fox departure in 1965. Frederick Swann worked with Tony Buffano (then curator of the organ and former A/S employee) on the additions to the instrument subsequent to Virgil's departure. During this concert, Virgil stated to Fred Swann - You have very definitely Improved It.
Yes, I was there singing along with all the other huge crowd. The soprano soloist is Louise Natale. The cameras were used for 2 video projection TV monitors on either side of the chancel. - a huge improvement (for the time) over the previous large mirror behind the console - another innovation which Virgil had implemented during his years as the organist at Riverside.
@nachthorn4foot Thank you! I should have known it was a Skinner from the sound. The performance would not be "kosher" in my church, but as a music and organ lover I personally enjoy this intrepretation and a chance to hear some different registrations utilized, even the Vox Humana. Thanks again.
@Cipher1928 Organ concert by Virgil Fox, May 6, 1979, The Riverside Church, N.Y. "O God Our Help In Ages Past" was the final number he performed that day. The entire concert is available on cd, titled, "Soli Deo Gloria".
This certainly presented the skill with which Virgil Fox performed, using the tune St. Anne, composed by William Croft, with 6 verses, and I don't think it can be replicated, and transcription is possible, but the length of the manuscript in itself would need assistance in page turning in concert.. This is Virgil at his improvisational best..
This isn't my personal cup of tea but I'm glad to have had the opportunity of hearing it. It's impossible not to admire VF's extraordinary musicianship which shines through. The appalling soloist should have been put out of her misery.
So many organists play as though they are trying to restrict the sound. Fox let's it wash over us for all it's worth. Flamboyant? Yes. But, isn't the organ itself the most flamboyant of instruments?
I've never been so moved by a hymn in all my life as the playing of this one. Virgil not only modulated up, but down also, according to the message of the text of the stanza. What genius and interpretation through the moviing and changing of registration. He certainly was the master of registration.
This CD is available at "The Virgil Fox Legacy" website for a cost of $15 + shipping. When you get to the site, just click on the link to his CD's.
I read somewhere online where Virgil Fox left the church to pursue concerts full time. Makes me wonder if maybe God took him home early because of it.
When Virgil returned to Riverside he was delighted to play the completed instrument. Fred Swan not only accomplished Virgil's plans but made stunning additions with Anthony Buffano's Master work in the finishing. He felt liberated and finally free of the call of the weekly obligations of the past. It was in fact his greatest performance upon that magnificent organ,a sold out seating witnessed history. By the way the Rockefellers funded the instrument because they wished to, to the Glory of God
@organman78 I could tell you the key changes if that helps (bear in mind that the hymn is 6 verses): v.1 and 2 in C, v.3 in A-flat, v.4 in F-Sharp, v.5 in C-sharp, V.6 in D.
Typically not a fan of the way Fox's flamboyance, but one can't help but be moved by this performance! Not only is the orchestration beautiful, but the communication and connection between the choir and the organist is remarkable given all other circumstances...
In order to truly judge this song you would have been there to hear it in person. I wasn't alive then, but if I was and was old enough I would have wanted to go.
What makes me upset is the fact that the church i have been going to for 14 years has constructed a new building and moved from the old one because we did not have enough people. The old building had a pipe organ that sounded great almost like this one, they were debating weather to take it to the new building or to leave it with the old one and you know what they did? They left it. Makes me very upset because it sounded amazing and they always kept it tuned. My church used that organ till 2008.
I love this hymn, he is a fantastic organist that used the organ to its fullist capabilities but, it was played to slow for my taste making this beautiful hymn seem to drag and I could do without the soloist too.
Virgil Fox, was an awesom organist, pieriod. So what if he played the organ to its fullest capability, The organs of old, did not have near the amount of suppession capabilies, and no one would dare tell Bach to tone it down. So why not play the organ at its most powerful voice. Should we tear the old organs down because thier too loud, no! Don't like it, don't listen.
The people responding negatively to this video are the same people that would throw a fit about what you like on your pizza. "OH my god how could you put pineapple on a pizza? HAM? How could yuou do that??", etc.
Organ, like anything else, is music. There's 10,000 ways to play a hymn. Some people like various ways and others do not. Doesn't make it right or wrong. The world goes around because of interesting, different people. I wish some people would lighten up a little bit.
For those who say he did the organ "a lot of harm"...would that be in the way he attracted so many to the King of Instruments? Or, maybe the way that he inspired so many in worship? Or maybe in the way that he taught people to be creative and not necessairly to just "be safe and fit into the mold"? Virgil was unique and yes, a showman. However, he put butts in the seat and inspired many to take up the King of Instruments. Look in the comments here and see how many were inspired by him.
I was raised in the English Cathedral tradition and stumbled across this video. I think it is magnificent, profoundly moving and, having read the comments of those lucky enough to have been present, regard the performance as a supreme testimony to the organist's Art and his Faith. Thank you thank you for posting this
Poor guy. I remember hearing him play more years ago than I like to admit, and it was quite a show. But man, this is awfully *slow*, isn't it? Did he always play it that way?
But the person who really needs to be hunted down like a rabid dog and shot on sight is the soprano soloist on "a thousand ages". That vibrato -- wider than the Jersey Turnpike; and scooping like a strip-mine steamshovel!
@philomela100 "He did the organ a lot of harm." Really? He drew audiences of people who otherwise wouldn't have been caught dead at an organ recital. He worked hard at his craft and left more of a legacy than most can dream of. Was his playing always "tasteful?" No, but that's a matter of taste.
Thats a bunch of non-sense if I ever heard it!!! No one ever tried to pull him off the bench nor struck him with an umbrella. So YOU dont like his playing, dont watch the video(s).
Get your facts right, CoutureOrganiste. "At that point, two prominent female members of the congregation who hated Virgil charged up to the organ, one to beat his back with her umbrella, and the other to pull him backwards off the bench! He never finished the piece, and as soon strongly advised to take a sabbatical while things cooled down." (Page 228 of "Virgil Fox- The Dish")
You should be so lucky as to even have heard him live. We're all anxiously awaiting the videos of your hymn playing so we know how to do it the right way.
My organ teacher was a pupil of Virgil's, many years ago and mentioned he was a very demanding teacher, but when I heard my teacher play, I could tell it had rubbed off. Virgil was superb as a player and his modulations were the best. Rest in Peace, Virgil, we all miss you.
How sad that when a guy posts a video he gets so much heat. Virgil Fox was our Liberace of the organ, I heard and watched him play as a pre-teen and that made me play the organ. I get a hard time today when I play because I aim to punch the windows out of the church, We have many fine organs in town and the people that play them are afraid of them May he rest in peace knowing he kept the organ community alive
@organpipe8 I was also inspired by Virgil Fox at age 10. I already had a love of the organ, he just made me want to play it. Always drama though, such as this hymn rendition. The soprano was way over the top and I'd bet money he had everything to do with it.
I'm not an organist, nor have I played one on T.V., but I find the transition at 5:16 and the consequential verse to be nothing less than inspiring. The only to define Virgil Fox is simply he was Virgil Fox. He certainly brought another dimension(s) to the instrument.
He is simply improvising. From what i understand, this was one of his favorite hymns to play, and his mother was actually in the audience. So, knowing this would probably be the last time he'd play this song...he went out with a bang! Can you definitely tell by the way he plays towards the end...it's simply inspiring. :)
Virgil was a long time friend, having heard him first in 1956. He later came to perform three concerts on the organ I built for the Kirk Of Dunedin Community Church in Dunedin, Florida. I was SO privileged to know him. Once, attending a service at Riverside, I witnessed tears in the congregation during his utterly amazing improvisation before the final verse.
Shed a tear, Virgil was in effect saying goodbye to Riverside and would meet his maker soon.
No wonder old Virgil finally upset the Rockefellers who bankrolled the organ. When Virgil was in the driving seat he held the audience in his hand, in church and out of it.
Yes he was a showman and this sometimes got the upper hand. Thank goodness the musician and organist won out most of the time and this has left us with many memorable performances on The King of Instruments.
OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH MYYY I aged at least TWO years listening to this mess of a GREAT hymn -- yes I guess his improvisations were something to admire, but WOW -- all of his organ pieces make time stand still. WHEW I need a drink on this one ...
I was sarcastically responding to another poster. I think Mr. Fox was an incredibally tatented performer. Flamboyant, sure and why not, it's part of his appeal!
The acoustucs of Riverside at that time had a very 'dry' acoustic. There was very little reverberation. Fox developed that release technique to simulate reverberation. Around 2000, the time of the GO Bicentennial conference, Riverside made major acoustical changes to the sanctuary. The changes were so majotr that Fred Swann commented that it was a 'new organ' when he played the recitals there and made his recording'Riverside Revisited'.
gainsayers should do well to play with a tenth the passion that he does.
I sorrow every day that I lost a CD of his organ playing on the way to work once. His playing of the Bach Little Fugue in G Minor sent me into a trance for days and weeks on end. I couldn't rest until I had learned that piece.
This has got to be the most majestic and beautiful ''Amen'' I have ever heard in my life. The whole thing is absolutely beautiful. Normally I like this hymn faster, but slow was just right for this. It was beautiful, and the last two verses just transport you to heaven. This is absolutely outstanding. Thanks so much for posting this!!!
Virgil always held the pedal longer than the manuals near the end of his playing career (and his life). I have recordings from the early '70's in which you can clearly hear the pedal held after the manuals are released.
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Even a child would render this very easy tune far better then what Mr. Virgil Fox has! His tempo is very slow and the spiritual essence of St. Ann, (the tune), is dumped by his very lousy and noisy playing! In fact very few stops are required the great organ needs only-diapasons and flutes, clarinets, piccolos, principal. The pedals -bourdon, double diapason. Uncoupled and then with gems horn, coronopean and gamba on the swell.
Wow! You certainly know a lot about organ registration! Please give us all more tips about how we can put the diapasons and clarinets together on the great, and cornopean with gemshorn on the swell!!!
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Are you complementing me or are you making fun of me instead? Well, I am a professional organist in Lyon, France and I can certainly comment that this is the worst, noisy and lousy performance that I have ever seen so far! He might be old, experienced & nice or whatever but this makes him the worst of all organists. Please listen to the organ renderings of Sir Herbert H. Hoffman (Munich musikil). Thats how the instrument is played! You reply is quite ironical and unclear!
Oh, yes, it's very obvious that you are a professional organist from Lyon, France! Please post some videos of your playing so that the world might see how great your registrations are!!
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Listen, you need to grow up and stop making fun of people!! Be a little civilised, you are an old jerk of nearly 58 years who cannot support an erection.I am what I am, I am the best male model in the world, I am one of the best musicians and about to be one of the best medical graduates, and I know what I am doing! Rest keep your bloody, stupid American sarcasm and nonsense to yourself, I do not even like Americans! I hate AMERICA!!!
Wow! A great model, medical graduate, professional organist from France! Your name will be more famous than Giscard d'Estain very soon...unless the psychiatric doctors take you away first. I advise you to control the wild fantasies in your head, but when your final breakdown does arrive, please post the video on youtube.
You hate America huh?... If it weren't for America, you'd probably be speaking German right now. (yeah, that's right...several thousand Americans died so your beloved France would not become a territory of Germany and so that you could become the French professional you claim to be) As for the comments on Virgil, I'll just let history continue to decide who is better....him or you. I think I'll be giving Mr. Fox my vote. (he also served in the war that liberated your country)
I'm sure you've supported a lot of erections in your day! It's really an honor to talk to the greatest male model and medical graduate in the world, what a thrill!
Well, I have apologised for my this commentry many a times to lipsbach and I had not known that Mr. Fox was ill and at the end of his life. I just suggested the other way of performing this hymn!As far as a model, people say I am a good one! And I may not be the greatest Medical undergraduate but I have excellent erections !lol! No doubt about that!LOL! Thank you for taking time and commenting on my comment , though sarcastic!lol!!
while you are in the mood for apologizing you should apologize for all of your other stupid comments as well! You might be good at "supporting erections" (is that what they call it in France?) but you know nothing about music! You should also apologize for not knowing how to spell or use puncuation!
Listen English is not my language, still I can write it and even speak it! Secondly,I am a pipe organist and a pianist & a singer classicaly trained in Europe's( world's) most reputed school of music. Four generations before me(in my family) had been very good musicians! I have apologised for once, do not take liberty of it! Mind your own business, got it! And Keep your little American cut ding dong ringing with it's base!Come to France for once and I will teach you how to"support" an erection!
well, thanks if you enjoy them! you know french, you sent me a scrap in french!where did you learn it? and how are my comments crazy? well they can be funny!!LOL!!
Just remember, even a fool can appear wise if they keep their mouth shut.
Oh, and BTW, I am certainally glad that there were a bunch of AMERICAN guys that had the necessary 'elan' to rescue your country when the Nazis had you all hiding in the sewers... I doubt that you could have held a candle to them.
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Listen I wrote that scrap one year ago and it was a heated conversation between lipsbach and me, whats your problem with that. I am not a fool (as you have written). You dont even know me and are writing such comments about my IQ, intellect and race. It was the French who saved your country from the English and also taught you to be liberal and wise.
My problem is 1.) with ignoramuses that loudly proclaim that they hate americans; 2.) bad liars and 3.) self delusional individuals that um, lets see, are the worlds best super model, attended the world's best music conservatories and are the worlds best 'medical undergraduate'. Sorry, I don't buy it. all I hear is an American hater from a country that is known for some good wine, little dictators and piles of headless corpses.
dont bother sending me PMs...I don't even open them...
What is humorous is your reaction; you go into a hillarious rant, posting nasty things on my youtube page, and (I assume by the content of your comment post...I simply deleted it without opening) sending me ranting PMs. I simply chuckle, delete your stupidity, and have my thoughts about self important idiots like you reinforced.
It is really telling... you get red in the face, rage like a caged animal, and I simply laugh.
Ich wünschte mir meine Gemeinde würde so singen. Dann könnte auch ich mal zeigen, dass eine Orgel auch andere Register, als 8' und 4' hat. Denn nach der Messe rennen die auch alle raus. Dabei hätte ich noch ne Bombarde 32' anzubieten.
hmm, du bist wahrscheinlich katholisch. Da hat mans als Organist nämlich echt schlecht getroffen. Ich bin evangelisch, bei uns bleiben alle zum Nachspiel sitzen. Da kann man auch mal als Musiker zeigen was man drauf hat, das ist echt schön und die Leute honorieren das auch. Ich hab schon nen halben Fanclub xD
what's the size of the room where your organ is located? by the way, remember this recording is probably @1979, so old recordings don't have great recording quality compared to nowadays.
The curch with the 19-stop organ is about 10 meters wide, 8 m high and not more than 25 m long. Of course it's also a question of the recording quality, but I have recorded the organ with low quality (I also recorded a church with 6 seconds reverb, on the recording you could just hear 2 seconds)
If anyone wanted to know the key changes, I believe they are as follows: verse 1, C; verse 2, C; verse 3, A-flat; verse 4, F-sharp; verse 5, C-sharp; verse 6 (last verse), D.
If I had to guess, I would say he was winging it. But I would also add that this was just a culmination of all his musical study and "experimentation" over the years. If you need a hint, if you know the melody, listen to the bass. Don't worry about the chords ,yet. You'll get them once you've gotten the melody and bass. This somewhat worked for me, but I don't intend to play it "verbatim" so to speak.
I don't think he was really winging it. Right before he plays it, he explains to Hazel Gravell what the plan is. He had probably done something very much like it at Riverside when he was organist there. He really was not much of an improvisor...NEVER that I know of did he improvise in concert. And he also had the highest regard for those who did, like Pierre Cochereau and David McK Williams to name 2 very different musicians.
By the way, I was lucky enough to have been at this concert in 1979, as a young person. Both Virgil and Van Cliburn gave me autographs. I think the tickets were $5. each!
That is correct. He originally had prostate cancer. It had however metasticised to other parts of his body causing fractures in his wrists and ankles.
No doubt from such a work out he did on the manuals and pedals. My thinking is that he may have been in a bit of pain and discomfort during this concert. He did love the organ and playing for people though. Because of this he probably ignored the pain!
everytime i watch this video it makes me cry lol im welling up as i speak. Such an inspiring video, and also everytime i watch this video for some reason it restores my faith in God. just seeing Virgil play through all those key changes and the solo on the 4th verse. it really touches me
I was there under the grille in the chancel and above was the 32 bombarde which Virgil used often! I saw this event from up close. Am thrilled to have been there and also at the reception later at the Plaza Hotel in NYC.
I'm a fan of Fox and Biggs: they both made significant contributions to the advancement and appreciation of the organ. I've never seen this video but eference is made to this final performance in Craig Whitney's book, All the Stops. Virgil had only months to live, the bones in his hands were riddled with fractures due to the spread of cancer and he must have been in pain. Very few performances can move me to weep like this. I hope we can put aside differences and appreciate the genius of both.
Oh to have been there! I bought the CD of this concert and I was immediately hooked and have been a fan ever since. Virgil Fox was unique, his technique and virtuosity were simply mesmerising. I find his recordings of Bach a revelation. His interpretations were not to everyone's taste, but who cares? If you dont like it, don't listen! He played from the heart and thats whats special...
I'm personally not a fan of Virgil's,never heard him in person,did hear Biggs, both were great men who brought the organ to many people in ways they had never heard it before, hats off to them both! As far as this rendition in the context it makes sense and it still works out of context..The congregation is following so isn't that a successful rendition of a hymn? I'm grateful for current musicians who follow Biggs and Fox in bringing people to the organ in ways they never heard it yet again.
absolutely gorgeous! i would have loved to have heard and sung this in person. i think the lady in the recording is helen gravelle(?,sp?)who was one of the old soloists who came back to sing. i also think that some of the harmonic arrangements were written by robert hebble and can be found in a now out of print organ collection of his hymn reharmonizations.
i think too that fox asked for no applause, instead he knelt before the sanctuary cross to acknowledge the Source of music and beauty.
A typical enormous American Organ. Typical American vocal presentational. Everything totally 'over the top'. But never mind, the playing is superb, you just need to shunt all the excessive monstrosities to one side to enjoy it.
Well, I'm not quite sure what you mean by 'Biggs groupies' and why the reference to Leipzig? The words are by the Englishman Isaac Watts (who lived 1674-1748), the music by William Croft, Organist & Master of the Choristers of Westminster Abbey 1708-1727. If you wish to hear a good performance of this fine hymn, listen to the Westminster Abbey choir singing it! Such a superb English hymn does not need the excessive and vulgar American interpretations, thanks very much.
I rather enjoy what Eddie Izzard has to say about the English singing ,"O God Our Help in Ages Past". He sees it from at Brit's view of it mainly being for the chosen frozen. Attend a Presbyterian service here and you get the drift.
Wow...so many critics and so many "critics" below. I'll add only that I was present at this concert and I feel privileged to have attended it. Most of us knew Virgil Fox was dying, that he was suffering terribly even as he played that day. I wouldn't dream of criticizing his playing, which was by no means his best, but was from the very depths of his being. I'll always remember his courage and strength on that day and how he moved those of us fortunate enough to experience the moment in person.
Wait a minute!! you would consider this performance as not one of his best? This performance of this hymn is OUTSTANDING!! I absolutely love this rendition. I wish I could play this rendition, I've even tried to play this rendition with all the key changes. It's very difficult to do. Fox's version sometimes makes me cry, and everyone who sang in this perfomance was very moving, especially the congregation (audience). If a man has to go out, go out with a BANG!! That's what I say.
I should have been more clear. I was referring to his playing overall that day, not this hymn specifically. As for being moved to tears...oh, trust me - you can't imagine how hard it was to sing! And afterwards, as the congregation (audience) departed the church, many people were not only moved but openly crying. It was a very emotional experience for those in attendance.
I am eternally grateful for EVERYONE who has a vidclip of Virgil Fox. His performances on the organ are always inspiring and uplifting to me. They have taught me how to have confidence in being myself whenever I play the organ. When I watch him play, I feel like I can play the way I feel in front of people and not be scared or ashamed. This is what Fox has shown me. He has re-invigorated my love for the pipe organ, and I would like to thank EVERYONE who posted a Virgil Fox vid on youtube. THX
Also, I grew up loving organ music. My mother was a church organist, and I would sit with her during her rehearsal. At the end she would let me play with the organ (I wasn't a player at that time, but she knew that the love was there. We're talking 4-6 yrs old.) My early records were all E.Power Biggs. I didn't know anything about Virgil Fox until MUCH later. Love them both. To compare them diminishes them both. They both gave everything they had, and the results were wonderful, but diff
Are there any video tapes of E. Power Biggs that can be posted on this site? I have seen a book with E. Power Biggs on the cover with the title implying Joplin's music on the organ. I think he re-wrote some of Joplin's rags for organ. I've looked at it briefly and I thought it was pretty good.
I have an old album of Biggs on the pedal harpsichord -- gosh, havent listened to that for years -- where he plays joplin. Don't know about the organ.
There is no right or wrong. There is no "Best Organist" There is only "Does it move me?" Virgil always moves me with his playing. Would I want to sing that song that way on Sunday morning? No. But at that time and place, it was what was required. Virgil was, as Michael Barone says, "A red-blooded organist." May all musicians reach for the stars as he did. I'm just so glad that he lived in a time of fairly good recording technology.
Burned alive, dead on the stake. The feeble souls are mine to take. Brimstone smell, with the stench of hell. The horror burns in their eyes. The weak little souls, there's no escape. Holy sheep are mine to take. Christian prayers fail once more. Their frail savior beaten to the ground. Drowned in a lake of fire. Burning the remains so you'll learn. Christ is dead, the two-faced liar. I'm burning his soul, in the flames. His broiling soul is just what you smell.
Death from the sky, you won't survive. Darkening clouds will fill the skies. Vaporizing all your prayers, burning them away. A funeral held for the lies of christanity. All humanity will soon learn, That jesus christ shall never return. Final day of christianity. Leviathan rises from the raging sea. Seize the power and glory, Lucifer is calling. I am Satan, master of the Earth. Condemn your souls for all they're worth. Bow down and worship me, 'Cause I'm your savior for all eternity.
Crying out from the church, their empty minds already enslaved. Voices from the shadowy realm, the beginning of the end. Powers of darkness encircle the light as he bursts from the earth. The sound of his voice from his kingdom calls to me. Crushing holy hypocrisy. Black magic working, powerful spells cast. Rise from the earth, arise. Evil in their eyes and blasphemy. Church of christ dies while Satan survives. Seizing power in Satan's name. A life of death is what he craves. Hail Satan!
Well, when it is a fly pitted against a leviathan, I think that every organist compared to Johann Sebastian Bach would admit to being the fly. There would really be no contest...and the "fly" would probably genuflect at Bach's feet.
bach had germany... fox had the US... who do you know that plays that well nowadays in the US? and of our time... fox was Bach. I've never heard Bach play personally (i've seen his sheet music)... but i've seen fox play bach... and i'm sure bach is well pleased. i actually cried while typing that... i'm a sucker for pipe organ.
At the end of his life this was one man's tribute to his mother and his music. He was a great musician and showman,the likes of which we will no doubt never see again. Those of you now majoring in piano & organ should take up the challenge of continuing his legacy.
Evidently at the end of his life this was one's man tribute to his mother and his music. He was a master of the organ, a great showman and musician, the likes of which we will never see again. I am 72 years old. Wish younger musicians would consider a life dedicated to the magnificant pipe organ.
My apologies - yes it was Hazel Gravell singing the solo.
As a native of the region I also used to attend the Cathedral Concert series of Tuesday evening recitals at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ when John Rose was music director. My memory transposed Hazel's identity with the soloist Louise Natale (who used to sing with John Rose in Newark, and also with Fred Swann at Riverside). John Rose was and still remains one of Virgil Fox very successful students.
Fox7Fan 4 months ago
@Fox7Fan Yes, I remember John and Phil Truckenbrod very well. John was a real artist at Sacred Heart during the early years of the Schantz, those long dark years ago. Notwithstanding getting chased around the choir gallery by John, he was a real musician for all seasons during those years there.
cnmmnc8852 3 months ago in playlist Virgil Fox Heavy Organ David Snyder Lumierist
As a relativly young Organist (35) I am sad that I missed the "glory years" of the Pipe Organ,or the "King of Instruments" as one gentleman put it. True Musicians like Virgil Fox, and many others are fading fast in our memories. It is up to us to continue to show the current and future generations that the organ is not the insrtument days past but the intrument for all time.
mlstrong911 5 months ago
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mlstrong911 5 months ago
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mlstrong911 5 months ago
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mlstrong911 5 months ago
THANK You Noteworthy. Thats ALL that needs to be said!
AAFDirectors 5 months ago
Regardless of how those for or against Virgil feel about him, listen to how loudly and joyously the congregation un this video is singing. That right there is enough testament to how much of an impact Virgil had upon those who listened to his performances.
tamiasthechipmunk 5 months ago
Yes, this was the final encore and music of that supreme Event in 1979.
And regarding the Aeolian Skinner organ, Frederick Swann was the successor to
Virgil Fox after Fox departure in 1965. Frederick Swann worked with Tony Buffano (then curator of the organ and former A/S employee) on the additions to the instrument subsequent to Virgil's departure. During this concert, Virgil stated to Fred Swann - You have very definitely Improved It.
Fox7Fan 6 months ago
Yes, I was there singing along with all the other huge crowd. The soprano soloist is Louise Natale. The cameras were used for 2 video projection TV monitors on either side of the chancel. - a huge improvement (for the time) over the previous large mirror behind the console - another innovation which Virgil had implemented during his years as the organist at Riverside.
Fox7Fan 6 months ago
@Fox7Fan That was Hazel Gravell, VF's friend/soprano in the Riverside Choir during he and Mr. Weagley's tenure.
cnmmnc8852 5 months ago
Virgil is chief
chadiyoussef 6 months ago
I don't care how many times I hear this vidio, I get goose bumps, and my hair
stands on end. Especialy on the last chord, and the famous Fox's hanging
pedal of the pice, full organ. I don't care what religon you are, what church
you are organist at. If you can't dominate the congregational sing, you don't
belong.
nachthorn4foot 7 months ago
Wow. Anybody know the occasion? Venue? Instrument? (I won't need to know who the soloist is, tho. Ugh.)
Cipher1928 10 months ago
@Cipher1928 I do not know what the occasion was, or venue.
But the organ is the famed E.M. Skinner, 5 manual, 203 rank opus 1118-C
The origanal organ was a 4 manual,119 Hook & Hastings. Virgil Fox collaberated with Skinner and
designed the first 5 manual opus 1118 & 1118 B 203 rank (1947, 1953-54) After Virgil Fox Left the
Riverside Church, The opus 1118 A&B was rebuilt in 1964 making it opus 1118-C
nachthorn4foot 8 months ago
@nachthorn4foot Thank you! I should have known it was a Skinner from the sound. The performance would not be "kosher" in my church, but as a music and organ lover I personally enjoy this intrepretation and a chance to hear some different registrations utilized, even the Vox Humana. Thanks again.
Cipher1928 8 months ago
@Cipher1928 Organ concert by Virgil Fox, May 6, 1979, The Riverside Church, N.Y. "O God Our Help In Ages Past" was the final number he performed that day. The entire concert is available on cd, titled, "Soli Deo Gloria".
1BBFAN4LYFE 7 months ago
This certainly presented the skill with which Virgil Fox performed, using the tune St. Anne, composed by William Croft, with 6 verses, and I don't think it can be replicated, and transcription is possible, but the length of the manuscript in itself would need assistance in page turning in concert.. This is Virgil at his improvisational best..
jmcgatkinson 10 months ago
This isn't my personal cup of tea but I'm glad to have had the opportunity of hearing it. It's impossible not to admire VF's extraordinary musicianship which shines through. The appalling soloist should have been put out of her misery.
MrSkodaman 11 months ago 3
So many organists play as though they are trying to restrict the sound. Fox let's it wash over us for all it's worth. Flamboyant? Yes. But, isn't the organ itself the most flamboyant of instruments?
jgesselberty 11 months ago
I've never been so moved by a hymn in all my life as the playing of this one. Virgil not only modulated up, but down also, according to the message of the text of the stanza. What genius and interpretation through the moviing and changing of registration. He certainly was the master of registration.
This CD is available at "The Virgil Fox Legacy" website for a cost of $15 + shipping. When you get to the site, just click on the link to his CD's.
Spedmanrich 1 year ago
I read somewhere online where Virgil Fox left the church to pursue concerts full time. Makes me wonder if maybe God took him home early because of it.
jmcinvale 1 year ago
When Virgil returned to Riverside he was delighted to play the completed instrument. Fred Swan not only accomplished Virgil's plans but made stunning additions with Anthony Buffano's Master work in the finishing. He felt liberated and finally free of the call of the weekly obligations of the past. It was in fact his greatest performance upon that magnificent organ,a sold out seating witnessed history. By the way the Rockefellers funded the instrument because they wished to, to the Glory of God
DavidSnyderLumierist 1 year ago
..haha...and he even has the habitual movement toward the general cancel button as does every organist at the end of a hymn
Jacobre156 1 year ago
Has anyone been able to transcribe this improv? In particular the modulatory interludes?
organman78 1 year ago
@organman78 I could tell you the key changes if that helps (bear in mind that the hymn is 6 verses): v.1 and 2 in C, v.3 in A-flat, v.4 in F-Sharp, v.5 in C-sharp, V.6 in D.
polgarfan 10 months ago
Pity about the 'Vox Humana' in the middle tho ;-)
ThatMinidotCom 1 year ago 2
Typically not a fan of the way Fox's flamboyance, but one can't help but be moved by this performance! Not only is the orchestration beautiful, but the communication and connection between the choir and the organist is remarkable given all other circumstances...
WJDubs 1 year ago
In order to truly judge this song you would have been there to hear it in person. I wasn't alive then, but if I was and was old enough I would have wanted to go.
jmcinvale 1 year ago
What makes me upset is the fact that the church i have been going to for 14 years has constructed a new building and moved from the old one because we did not have enough people. The old building had a pipe organ that sounded great almost like this one, they were debating weather to take it to the new building or to leave it with the old one and you know what they did? They left it. Makes me very upset because it sounded amazing and they always kept it tuned. My church used that organ till 2008.
compdude957 1 year ago
great
garebear1015 1 year ago
I love this hymn, he is a fantastic organist that used the organ to its fullist capabilities but, it was played to slow for my taste making this beautiful hymn seem to drag and I could do without the soloist too.
gclukenola 1 year ago
How many organists do you know that can conduct from the organ, the man was a genius
Lucian690 1 year ago
Virgil Fox, was an awesom organist, pieriod. So what if he played the organ to its fullest capability, The organs of old, did not have near the amount of suppession capabilies, and no one would dare tell Bach to tone it down. So why not play the organ at its most powerful voice. Should we tear the old organs down because thier too loud, no! Don't like it, don't listen.
TheClanMacGregor 1 year ago
The world is a poorer place without Dr.Fox.
Offshoreorganbuilder 1 year ago
The people responding negatively to this video are the same people that would throw a fit about what you like on your pizza. "OH my god how could you put pineapple on a pizza? HAM? How could yuou do that??", etc.
Organ, like anything else, is music. There's 10,000 ways to play a hymn. Some people like various ways and others do not. Doesn't make it right or wrong. The world goes around because of interesting, different people. I wish some people would lighten up a little bit.
FireworksMasters 1 year ago
For those who say he did the organ "a lot of harm"...would that be in the way he attracted so many to the King of Instruments? Or, maybe the way that he inspired so many in worship? Or maybe in the way that he taught people to be creative and not necessairly to just "be safe and fit into the mold"? Virgil was unique and yes, a showman. However, he put butts in the seat and inspired many to take up the King of Instruments. Look in the comments here and see how many were inspired by him.
PJManfredi 1 year ago
the best ever
greatbigge 1 year ago
I was raised in the English Cathedral tradition and stumbled across this video. I think it is magnificent, profoundly moving and, having read the comments of those lucky enough to have been present, regard the performance as a supreme testimony to the organist's Art and his Faith. Thank you thank you for posting this
Altivelzian 1 year ago
don't care for it and my pastor would shoot me.
kempedkemp 1 year ago
@kempedkemp Obviously you didn't notice how the congregation was singing its collective heart out?
realmusicman2007 1 year ago
Virgil! Number One! Always...and forever!!!
emdelroman 1 year ago
Poor guy. I remember hearing him play more years ago than I like to admit, and it was quite a show. But man, this is awfully *slow*, isn't it? Did he always play it that way?
But the person who really needs to be hunted down like a rabid dog and shot on sight is the soprano soloist on "a thousand ages". That vibrato -- wider than the Jersey Turnpike; and scooping like a strip-mine steamshovel!
rauschpfeife 1 year ago 3
I love the orgasmic effects in his expressions.. each pipe sound appears to be piercing through his heart and soul.. awesome.. :-)
tf5033 1 year ago
holy shit, the poor congregation that had to deal with this every sunday for 19 years....my god
coutureorganist 1 year ago
@coutureorganist
Riverside should have fired VF way before he finally stepped down. There
are stories about old ladies coming up behind him at the console and beating
him with umbrellas and trying to pull him off the bench backwards! No
kidding!! VF was a great showman -- a terrible sight-reader and he had
no knowledge at all of keyboard harmony, etc. etc. A rather pitiful person
and he did the organ a lot of harm
philomela100 1 year ago
@philomela100 "He did the organ a lot of harm." Really? He drew audiences of people who otherwise wouldn't have been caught dead at an organ recital. He worked hard at his craft and left more of a legacy than most can dream of. Was his playing always "tasteful?" No, but that's a matter of taste.
realmusicman2007 1 year ago
@philomela100
Thats a bunch of non-sense if I ever heard it!!! No one ever tried to pull him off the bench nor struck him with an umbrella. So YOU dont like his playing, dont watch the video(s).
CoutureOrganiste 1 year ago
@CoutureOrganiste
Get your facts right, CoutureOrganiste. "At that point, two prominent female members of the congregation who hated Virgil charged up to the organ, one to beat his back with her umbrella, and the other to pull him backwards off the bench! He never finished the piece, and as soon strongly advised to take a sabbatical while things cooled down." (Page 228 of "Virgil Fox- The Dish")
superoctave 1 year ago
@philomela100
What a terrible comment. Do you know nothing of VF? Two old ladies did that because they think his playing was too harsh. Its called interpretation.
There is a reason these organs have so many stops.
VF was an excellent sight reader and had one of the best memories for any artist that ever lived.
Virgil fox was an organ genius and shown to be a prodigy at a young age, and learned from the best living organists in the world in his day.
Brandotuomikoski 1 year ago
@coutureorganist
You should be so lucky as to even have heard him live. We're all anxiously awaiting the videos of your hymn playing so we know how to do it the right way.
CoutureOrganiste 1 year ago
@coutureorganist
Do you even like organ music? I suggest you go on Rhapsody, look up Virgil Fox and listen to his music before you say how bad he is.
jmcinvale 1 year ago
It's VERY amazing in how after all these years Virgil STILL strikes a cord in our hears. I guess HE found "The Lost Cord" (smile)
aafdirector 1 year ago
My organ teacher was a pupil of Virgil's, many years ago and mentioned he was a very demanding teacher, but when I heard my teacher play, I could tell it had rubbed off. Virgil was superb as a player and his modulations were the best. Rest in Peace, Virgil, we all miss you.
organistable 1 year ago
How sad that when a guy posts a video he gets so much heat. Virgil Fox was our Liberace of the organ, I heard and watched him play as a pre-teen and that made me play the organ. I get a hard time today when I play because I aim to punch the windows out of the church, We have many fine organs in town and the people that play them are afraid of them May he rest in peace knowing he kept the organ community alive
slingshot731 2 years ago 17
I met Virgil - there has been no one like him, a good Christian † He inspired me to become an Organist.
organpipe8 1 year ago
@organpipe8 I was also inspired by Virgil Fox at age 10. I already had a love of the organ, he just made me want to play it. Always drama though, such as this hymn rendition. The soprano was way over the top and I'd bet money he had everything to do with it.
kempedkemp 1 year ago
I'm not an organist, nor have I played one on T.V., but I find the transition at 5:16 and the consequential verse to be nothing less than inspiring. The only to define Virgil Fox is simply he was Virgil Fox. He certainly brought another dimension(s) to the instrument.
blugrazn 2 years ago
I heard once that he did that to create a "false reverb".
octavebasse8 2 years ago
One the great Christian hymns but far too slow..it should be stately, not funereal.
bill1745 2 years ago
I think this was the last thing he played before he died, though.
polgarfan 2 years ago
He is simply improvising. From what i understand, this was one of his favorite hymns to play, and his mother was actually in the audience. So, knowing this would probably be the last time he'd play this song...he went out with a bang! Can you definitely tell by the way he plays towards the end...it's simply inspiring. :)
myronbrownjr 1 year ago
Something that, perhaps, he may have picked up from George Thalben Ball.
FyrtleMyrtle 2 years ago
Genius.
krzysztofmusiolik711 2 years ago 2
Virgil was a long time friend, having heard him first in 1956. He later came to perform three concerts on the organ I built for the Kirk Of Dunedin Community Church in Dunedin, Florida. I was SO privileged to know him. Once, attending a service at Riverside, I witnessed tears in the congregation during his utterly amazing improvisation before the final verse.
hitidesin 2 years ago 2
Shed a tear, Virgil was in effect saying goodbye to Riverside and would meet his maker soon.
No wonder old Virgil finally upset the Rockefellers who bankrolled the organ. When Virgil was in the driving seat he held the audience in his hand, in church and out of it.
Yes he was a showman and this sometimes got the upper hand. Thank goodness the musician and organist won out most of the time and this has left us with many memorable performances on The King of Instruments.
noteworthy99 2 years ago 23
OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH MYYY I aged at least TWO years listening to this mess of a GREAT hymn -- yes I guess his improvisations were something to admire, but WOW -- all of his organ pieces make time stand still. WHEW I need a drink on this one ...
jeffward920 2 years ago
I don't think he improvised. He did not play "by ear".
legamature 2 years ago
Much of fun in You Tube is reaction comments provoke.
Was teasing. Agreed Virgil Fox so very talented, usually over the top for me. Subscribe to Bishfan.
Subject Diane Bish can suffer from same trait to lesser degree.
If you want hear hymn tune in ideal arrangement well performed minus frills try Organskr site.
Abide with Me - (Abide SV. Moric Olomouc organ).
This from young Czech organist, in manner to my mind how hymns should always be performed.
dagdale 2 years ago
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dagdale 2 years ago
I was sarcastically responding to another poster. I think Mr. Fox was an incredibally tatented performer. Flamboyant, sure and why not, it's part of his appeal!
kevininbuffalo 2 years ago
The acoustucs of Riverside at that time had a very 'dry' acoustic. There was very little reverberation. Fox developed that release technique to simulate reverberation. Around 2000, the time of the GO Bicentennial conference, Riverside made major acoustical changes to the sanctuary. The changes were so majotr that Fred Swann commented that it was a 'new organ' when he played the recitals there and made his recording'Riverside Revisited'.
tweety11826 2 years ago
Sheer ostentation, but very enjoyable.
straypixel 2 years ago
Let's hear it for obstentation!
kevininbuffalo 2 years ago
Just sublime. A powerful hymn, by a powerful Organist, on a powerful Organ. Its heavingly.
keybora 2 years ago 3
Powerful indeed.
gainsayers should do well to play with a tenth the passion that he does.
I sorrow every day that I lost a CD of his organ playing on the way to work once. His playing of the Bach Little Fugue in G Minor sent me into a trance for days and weeks on end. I couldn't rest until I had learned that piece.
maxscriptguru 2 years ago
If you don't release downwards, the mixtures scream out in a final solo as the echos die away. Shouldn't sound a dangling pedal, though.
333666666 2 years ago
This has got to be the most majestic and beautiful ''Amen'' I have ever heard in my life. The whole thing is absolutely beautiful. Normally I like this hymn faster, but slow was just right for this. It was beautiful, and the last two verses just transport you to heaven. This is absolutely outstanding. Thanks so much for posting this!!!
feemeister 2 years ago
Virgil always held the pedal longer than the manuals near the end of his playing career (and his life). I have recordings from the early '70's in which you can clearly hear the pedal held after the manuals are released.
livzdave 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Even a child would render this very easy tune far better then what Mr. Virgil Fox has! His tempo is very slow and the spiritual essence of St. Ann, (the tune), is dumped by his very lousy and noisy playing! In fact very few stops are required the great organ needs only-diapasons and flutes, clarinets, piccolos, principal. The pedals -bourdon, double diapason. Uncoupled and then with gems horn, coronopean and gamba on the swell.
kviky0 2 years ago
Wow! You certainly know a lot about organ registration! Please give us all more tips about how we can put the diapasons and clarinets together on the great, and cornopean with gemshorn on the swell!!!
lipsbach 2 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Are you complementing me or are you making fun of me instead? Well, I am a professional organist in Lyon, France and I can certainly comment that this is the worst, noisy and lousy performance that I have ever seen so far! He might be old, experienced & nice or whatever but this makes him the worst of all organists. Please listen to the organ renderings of Sir Herbert H. Hoffman (Munich musikil). Thats how the instrument is played! You reply is quite ironical and unclear!
kviky0 2 years ago
Oh, yes, it's very obvious that you are a professional organist from Lyon, France! Please post some videos of your playing so that the world might see how great your registrations are!!
lipsbach 2 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Listen, you need to grow up and stop making fun of people!! Be a little civilised, you are an old jerk of nearly 58 years who cannot support an erection.I am what I am, I am the best male model in the world, I am one of the best musicians and about to be one of the best medical graduates, and I know what I am doing! Rest keep your bloody, stupid American sarcasm and nonsense to yourself, I do not even like Americans! I hate AMERICA!!!
kviky0 2 years ago
Wow! A great model, medical graduate, professional organist from France! Your name will be more famous than Giscard d'Estain very soon...unless the psychiatric doctors take you away first. I advise you to control the wild fantasies in your head, but when your final breakdown does arrive, please post the video on youtube.
lipsbach 2 years ago 2
You hate America huh?... If it weren't for America, you'd probably be speaking German right now. (yeah, that's right...several thousand Americans died so your beloved France would not become a territory of Germany and so that you could become the French professional you claim to be) As for the comments on Virgil, I'll just let history continue to decide who is better....him or you. I think I'll be giving Mr. Fox my vote. (he also served in the war that liberated your country)
anb740 2 years ago
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I'm sure you've supported a lot of erections in your day! It's really an honor to talk to the greatest male model and medical graduate in the world, what a thrill!
EchoCannon89 2 years ago 2
Well, I have apologised for my this commentry many a times to lipsbach and I had not known that Mr. Fox was ill and at the end of his life. I just suggested the other way of performing this hymn!As far as a model, people say I am a good one! And I may not be the greatest Medical undergraduate but I have excellent erections !lol! No doubt about that!LOL! Thank you for taking time and commenting on my comment , though sarcastic!lol!!
kviky0 2 years ago
while you are in the mood for apologizing you should apologize for all of your other stupid comments as well! You might be good at "supporting erections" (is that what they call it in France?) but you know nothing about music! You should also apologize for not knowing how to spell or use puncuation!
EchoCannon89 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Listen English is not my language, still I can write it and even speak it! Secondly,I am a pipe organist and a pianist & a singer classicaly trained in Europe's( world's) most reputed school of music. Four generations before me(in my family) had been very good musicians! I have apologised for once, do not take liberty of it! Mind your own business, got it! And Keep your little American cut ding dong ringing with it's base!Come to France for once and I will teach you how to"support" an erection!
kviky0 2 years ago
I have to say honestly...I enjoy your comments. They are crazy and funny!
lipsbach 2 years ago
well, thanks if you enjoy them! you know french, you sent me a scrap in french!where did you learn it? and how are my comments crazy? well they can be funny!!LOL!!
kviky0 2 years ago
@kviky0
Just remember, even a fool can appear wise if they keep their mouth shut.
Oh, and BTW, I am certainally glad that there were a bunch of AMERICAN guys that had the necessary 'elan' to rescue your country when the Nazis had you all hiding in the sewers... I doubt that you could have held a candle to them.
Peace
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Listen I wrote that scrap one year ago and it was a heated conversation between lipsbach and me, whats your problem with that. I am not a fool (as you have written). You dont even know me and are writing such comments about my IQ, intellect and race. It was the French who saved your country from the English and also taught you to be liberal and wise.
kviky0 2 years ago
My problem is 1.) with ignoramuses that loudly proclaim that they hate americans; 2.) bad liars and 3.) self delusional individuals that um, lets see, are the worlds best super model, attended the world's best music conservatories and are the worlds best 'medical undergraduate'. Sorry, I don't buy it. all I hear is an American hater from a country that is known for some good wine, little dictators and piles of headless corpses.
dont bother sending me PMs...I don't even open them...
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago 3
What is humorous is your reaction; you go into a hillarious rant, posting nasty things on my youtube page, and (I assume by the content of your comment post...I simply deleted it without opening) sending me ranting PMs. I simply chuckle, delete your stupidity, and have my thoughts about self important idiots like you reinforced.
It is really telling... you get red in the face, rage like a caged animal, and I simply laugh.
Peace,
ADT
amourdutigre 2 years ago 3
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sylvestermeow 2 years ago
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sylvestermeow 2 years ago
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sylvestermeow 2 years ago
I suggest you also buy and critique the RCCO CD with live recordings of Healy Willan playing at St. Mary Mag in Toronto.
Yes. Everything about this is WRONG for a normal parish use of the hymn. This wasn't a normal occurrence, though.
Riverside Church, being resonant, requires a slower tempo.
Previous styles called for slower playing. Listen to the Willan recordings (above).
And, this was a dying man's testament to us. Based upon older playing styles, it is Fox's "Come, Sweet Death."
rrchapman 2 years ago
Riverside church being resonant? :S It wasn't back then, although steps were made a few years ago to make it much more so! :D
FyrtleMyrtle 2 years ago
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sylvestermeow 2 years ago
Ich wünschte mir meine Gemeinde würde so singen. Dann könnte auch ich mal zeigen, dass eine Orgel auch andere Register, als 8' und 4' hat. Denn nach der Messe rennen die auch alle raus. Dabei hätte ich noch ne Bombarde 32' anzubieten.
orgelfan 2 years ago
hmm, du bist wahrscheinlich katholisch. Da hat mans als Organist nämlich echt schlecht getroffen. Ich bin evangelisch, bei uns bleiben alle zum Nachspiel sitzen. Da kann man auch mal als Musiker zeigen was man drauf hat, das ist echt schön und die Leute honorieren das auch. Ich hab schon nen halben Fanclub xD
DAOFB 2 years ago
It's amazing how Virgil could come up with some of the most amazing hymn interlude improvisations I've ever heard!
anb740 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Grade C+
tguodong 3 years ago
Good performance, but very dry acoustic, I get more than the double reverb with my 19-stop organ!
polsterj 3 years ago
what's the size of the room where your organ is located? by the way, remember this recording is probably @1979, so old recordings don't have great recording quality compared to nowadays.
polgarfan 3 years ago
The curch with the 19-stop organ is about 10 meters wide, 8 m high and not more than 25 m long. Of course it's also a question of the recording quality, but I have recorded the organ with low quality (I also recorded a church with 6 seconds reverb, on the recording you could just hear 2 seconds)
polsterj 3 years ago
GEIL also wirklich FANTASTISCH!!!!
Orgeltrecker 3 years ago
If anyone wanted to know the key changes, I believe they are as follows: verse 1, C; verse 2, C; verse 3, A-flat; verse 4, F-sharp; verse 5, C-sharp; verse 6 (last verse), D.
polgarfan 3 years ago
thanks i was wondering...i wanna find this arrangement...or was fox just winging it?
handelfan610 3 years ago
If I had to guess, I would say he was winging it. But I would also add that this was just a culmination of all his musical study and "experimentation" over the years. If you need a hint, if you know the melody, listen to the bass. Don't worry about the chords ,yet. You'll get them once you've gotten the melody and bass. This somewhat worked for me, but I don't intend to play it "verbatim" so to speak.
polgarfan 3 years ago
thanks i'll see what happens *gulp.
handelfan610 3 years ago
I don't think he was really winging it. Right before he plays it, he explains to Hazel Gravell what the plan is. He had probably done something very much like it at Riverside when he was organist there. He really was not much of an improvisor...NEVER that I know of did he improvise in concert. And he also had the highest regard for those who did, like Pierre Cochereau and David McK Williams to name 2 very different musicians.
lipsbach 2 years ago
By the way, I was lucky enough to have been at this concert in 1979, as a young person. Both Virgil and Van Cliburn gave me autographs. I think the tickets were $5. each!
lipsbach 2 years ago
Where was this recorded?
wheidelberg 3 years ago
riverside church where virgil was the organist.
handelfan610 3 years ago
Thank God this man graced this world with his wonderful musical talents.
tamiasthechipmunk 3 years ago 3
aaaamen!
burningbeing 3 years ago
That is correct. He originally had prostate cancer. It had however metasticised to other parts of his body causing fractures in his wrists and ankles.
No doubt from such a work out he did on the manuals and pedals. My thinking is that he may have been in a bit of pain and discomfort during this concert. He did love the organ and playing for people though. Because of this he probably ignored the pain!
bunkytony 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
O God help...
VictorCharlie10 3 years ago
The organ was lovely, but that soprano...yeah
delicateflowerspain 3 years ago
After listening to this, I feel much closer to my maker - almost as if going up the escalator to that big party with the saints in the sky.
niksiz 3 years ago
everytime i watch this video it makes me cry lol im welling up as i speak. Such an inspiring video, and also everytime i watch this video for some reason it restores my faith in God. just seeing Virgil play through all those key changes and the solo on the 4th verse. it really touches me
Sentfromheaven87 3 years ago
O God our Help!
Graham1952 3 years ago
The playing is impeccable, but I thought things became rather laboured, esp. towards the end.
kapariz44 3 years ago
i think someone said he was sick during this performance. or so i've heard
handelfan610 3 years ago
He had bone cancer and died the following year.
niksiz 3 years ago
yes yes...so his hands had to have been killing him the poor man. god bless him...this makes my eyes tear up as i watch and listen.
handelfan610 3 years ago 3
I was there under the grille in the chancel and above was the 32 bombarde which Virgil used often! I saw this event from up close. Am thrilled to have been there and also at the reception later at the Plaza Hotel in NYC.
stevebournias 3 years ago
I'm a fan of Fox and Biggs: they both made significant contributions to the advancement and appreciation of the organ. I've never seen this video but eference is made to this final performance in Craig Whitney's book, All the Stops. Virgil had only months to live, the bones in his hands were riddled with fractures due to the spread of cancer and he must have been in pain. Very few performances can move me to weep like this. I hope we can put aside differences and appreciate the genius of both.
ORGANICDUDE 3 years ago 3
Oh to have been there! I bought the CD of this concert and I was immediately hooked and have been a fan ever since. Virgil Fox was unique, his technique and virtuosity were simply mesmerising. I find his recordings of Bach a revelation. His interpretations were not to everyone's taste, but who cares? If you dont like it, don't listen! He played from the heart and thats whats special...
JFSnail 3 years ago 4
that comment and this music made me cry.
handelfan610 3 years ago 6
@handelfan610 Agreed.
srdude5491 1 year ago
Could you perhaps send or post the name of the CD of this. It is a must have for me.
Thanks
wheidelberg 3 years ago
Where can I get this recording to buy? It's very good
busta4u 2 years ago
I'm personally not a fan of Virgil's,never heard him in person,did hear Biggs, both were great men who brought the organ to many people in ways they had never heard it before, hats off to them both! As far as this rendition in the context it makes sense and it still works out of context..The congregation is following so isn't that a successful rendition of a hymn? I'm grateful for current musicians who follow Biggs and Fox in bringing people to the organ in ways they never heard it yet again.
Terry77707 3 years ago
absolutely gorgeous! i would have loved to have heard and sung this in person. i think the lady in the recording is helen gravelle(?,sp?)who was one of the old soloists who came back to sing. i also think that some of the harmonic arrangements were written by robert hebble and can be found in a now out of print organ collection of his hymn reharmonizations.
i think too that fox asked for no applause, instead he knelt before the sanctuary cross to acknowledge the Source of music and beauty.
organace 3 years ago
that organ is huge ! ! ! and such a loveley organist too
admeral16 3 years ago
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A typical enormous American Organ. Typical American vocal presentational. Everything totally 'over the top'. But never mind, the playing is superb, you just need to shunt all the excessive monstrosities to one side to enjoy it.
ds1868 3 years ago
You Biggs groupies need to get together in Leipzig and have a love fest around your one manual hand pumped organ.
KE5RHD 3 years ago
Well, I'm not quite sure what you mean by 'Biggs groupies' and why the reference to Leipzig? The words are by the Englishman Isaac Watts (who lived 1674-1748), the music by William Croft, Organist & Master of the Choristers of Westminster Abbey 1708-1727. If you wish to hear a good performance of this fine hymn, listen to the Westminster Abbey choir singing it! Such a superb English hymn does not need the excessive and vulgar American interpretations, thanks very much.
ds1868 3 years ago
I rather enjoy what Eddie Izzard has to say about the English singing ,"O God Our Help in Ages Past". He sees it from at Brit's view of it mainly being for the chosen frozen. Attend a Presbyterian service here and you get the drift.
KE5RHD 3 years ago
He certainly knew how to make a massive pipe organ 'speak'.
Awesome!
srdude5491 3 years ago
Wow...so many critics and so many "critics" below. I'll add only that I was present at this concert and I feel privileged to have attended it. Most of us knew Virgil Fox was dying, that he was suffering terribly even as he played that day. I wouldn't dream of criticizing his playing, which was by no means his best, but was from the very depths of his being. I'll always remember his courage and strength on that day and how he moved those of us fortunate enough to experience the moment in person.
bbinchi 3 years ago 6
Wait a minute!! you would consider this performance as not one of his best? This performance of this hymn is OUTSTANDING!! I absolutely love this rendition. I wish I could play this rendition, I've even tried to play this rendition with all the key changes. It's very difficult to do. Fox's version sometimes makes me cry, and everyone who sang in this perfomance was very moving, especially the congregation (audience). If a man has to go out, go out with a BANG!! That's what I say.
polgarfan 3 years ago 4
I should have been more clear. I was referring to his playing overall that day, not this hymn specifically. As for being moved to tears...oh, trust me - you can't imagine how hard it was to sing! And afterwards, as the congregation (audience) departed the church, many people were not only moved but openly crying. It was a very emotional experience for those in attendance.
bbinchi 3 years ago
I am eternally grateful for EVERYONE who has a vidclip of Virgil Fox. His performances on the organ are always inspiring and uplifting to me. They have taught me how to have confidence in being myself whenever I play the organ. When I watch him play, I feel like I can play the way I feel in front of people and not be scared or ashamed. This is what Fox has shown me. He has re-invigorated my love for the pipe organ, and I would like to thank EVERYONE who posted a Virgil Fox vid on youtube. THX
polgarfan 3 years ago
I often get chills listening to Biggs, but when i listen to Virgil I weep.
tactilex 3 years ago
Also, I grew up loving organ music. My mother was a church organist, and I would sit with her during her rehearsal. At the end she would let me play with the organ (I wasn't a player at that time, but she knew that the love was there. We're talking 4-6 yrs old.) My early records were all E.Power Biggs. I didn't know anything about Virgil Fox until MUCH later. Love them both. To compare them diminishes them both. They both gave everything they had, and the results were wonderful, but diff
tactilex 3 years ago
Are there any video tapes of E. Power Biggs that can be posted on this site? I have seen a book with E. Power Biggs on the cover with the title implying Joplin's music on the organ. I think he re-wrote some of Joplin's rags for organ. I've looked at it briefly and I thought it was pretty good.
polgarfan 3 years ago
I have an old album of Biggs on the pedal harpsichord -- gosh, havent listened to that for years -- where he plays joplin. Don't know about the organ.
tactilex 3 years ago
There is no right or wrong. There is no "Best Organist" There is only "Does it move me?" Virgil always moves me with his playing. Would I want to sing that song that way on Sunday morning? No. But at that time and place, it was what was required. Virgil was, as Michael Barone says, "A red-blooded organist." May all musicians reach for the stars as he did. I'm just so glad that he lived in a time of fairly good recording technology.
tactilex 3 years ago
WOW! A true master of the King of Instruments.
togoclay 3 years ago
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TheDarkLordLucifer 4 years ago
Christ is already the victory!....in the end...one little word shall fell him! :)
Hawkestonian 3 years ago
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TheDarkLordLucifer 3 years ago
I am sorry you feel this way. The best I can do, is pray for your lost soul.
myronbrownjr 3 years ago
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TheDarkLordLucifer 3 years ago
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Let it go, he's nothing but a rebellious teenager or an adult with the mental age of a rebellious teenager.
DerMeister2007 3 years ago
Well, when it is a fly pitted against a leviathan, I think that every organist compared to Johann Sebastian Bach would admit to being the fly. There would really be no contest...and the "fly" would probably genuflect at Bach's feet.
Caxton1942 4 years ago
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Diane Bish? Baa ha ha ha!
vinnycor1 4 years ago
To me, the very best organist in the world is Miss Diane Bish, currently of University of Indiana at Bloomington.
cincy3waychili 4 years ago
Have you heard Marie-Claire Alain or Hans Fagius?
pianoandpipes 3 years ago
or even Joyce Jones
Reesman95 3 years ago
E> Power Biggs--- not a chance! Vigil surpasses him by far.
vinnycor1 4 years ago
Virgil Fox greatest Pipe Organist, next to Johan Bach.....don't you all agree?
poopingeneral 4 years ago
no!
karlwurtz 4 years ago
bach had germany... fox had the US... who do you know that plays that well nowadays in the US? and of our time... fox was Bach. I've never heard Bach play personally (i've seen his sheet music)... but i've seen fox play bach... and i'm sure bach is well pleased. i actually cried while typing that... i'm a sucker for pipe organ.
choirkid610 4 years ago
Awesome Organist!
Graham1952 4 years ago 5
At the end of his life this was one man's tribute to his mother and his music. He was a great musician and showman,the likes of which we will no doubt never see again. Those of you now majoring in piano & organ should take up the challenge of continuing his legacy.
anooraq 4 years ago 8
Evidently at the end of his life this was one's man tribute to his mother and his music. He was a master of the organ, a great showman and musician, the likes of which we will never see again. I am 72 years old. Wish younger musicians would consider a life dedicated to the magnificant pipe organ.
anooraq 4 years ago 4