Organ Fireworks 6: Organ of Wellington Town Hall, New Zealand

Christopher Herrick, a renowned organist, invites you to experience the grandeur of the Wellington Town Hall's organ in this captivating album. Recorded in 1995 and released under the Hyperion label, this collection showcases Herrick's virtuosity and the organ's impressive range. The album spans a diverse repertoire, from classical organ sonatas to festive variations on the New Zealand national anthem, "God Defend New Zealand."

The album opens with a lively "A Trumpet Minuet" by Alfred Hollins, setting the tone for the dynamic performances that follow. Herrick's interpretation of the Organ Sonata, Op. 28, by Charles-Marie Widor is a standout, demonstrating his technical prowess and musical sensitivity. The sonata's four movements, from the majestic "Allegro maestoso" to the exhilarating "Presto," highlight the organ's versatility and Herrick's command of its capabilities.

One of the album's highlights is "Kiwi Fireworks," a set of variations on "God Defend New Zealand." This piece is a celebration of New Zealand's national identity, with each movement offering a unique interpretation of the anthem. From the festive "Overture and Theme" to the triumphant "Fanfare and Finale," this suite is a testament to Herrick's creativity and the organ's expressive power.

The album also features works by other composers, including a lively "Tuba Tune" and a polished performance of the "Concertstück in the Form of a Polonaise No. 1, Op. 80." The album concludes with a stirring arrangement of the overture from Wagner's "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg," showcasing the organ's dramatic potential.

With a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of the Wellington Town Hall organ's capabilities, performed by one of the world's leading organists. Whether you're a seasoned organ enthusiast or a casual listener, this album is sure to impress with its technical brilliance and musical depth.