I first encountered this instrument in 1977 with John at the console. He was on of the staff organists covering for Keith Chapman at the time. Thank you for your years of contributions to the organ world. R.I.P., John.
Organ Professor John Binsfeld III of Temple University followed Prof. Earl Ness circa the 1980's I believe. Professor Binsfeld was legendary at registration and pedagogy. He blended the stops in such a way as to add seamless crescendo and expression. Once, in a lesson he told me that there are many organists who play notes and then there are those who have something to play about! Something deep in their souls to express. This recording reminds me of his endless efforts towards excellence in his music and in life. He sacrificed many days and hours to devote himself to the playing of the organ. As one of his organ students, it would of been too easy to allow us the opportunity to play or cover a service for him. However, he never did this. He always played the services and always played beautiful repertoire even if only a few were in attendance. In all my years at Christ Church as his student, he always loved to perform and never gave up the opportunity to share his gift of music that God so generously and graciously gave him. He poured his heart into every note of his music and taught us to do the same! Thank you so much for posting this recording! JBIII played the Wannamaker Ogan ever since his days at Curtis and Christ Church which represent well over 45 years. It should be noted that he also played the organ for Pope John Paul during the Eucharist Congress in 1976.
I first encountered this instrument in 1977 with John at the console. He was on of the staff organists covering for Keith Chapman at the time.
Thank you for your years of contributions to the organ world. R.I.P., John.
Glorious, transcendent beauty. A priceless recording.
Organ Professor John Binsfeld III of Temple University followed Prof. Earl Ness circa the 1980's I believe. Professor Binsfeld was legendary at registration and pedagogy. He blended the stops in such a way as to add seamless crescendo and expression. Once, in a lesson he told me that there are many organists who play notes and then there are those who have something to play about! Something deep in their souls to express. This recording reminds me of his endless efforts towards excellence in his music and in life. He sacrificed many days and hours to devote himself to the playing of the organ. As one of his organ students, it would of been too easy to allow us the opportunity to play or cover a service for him. However, he never did this. He always played the services and always played beautiful repertoire even if only a few were in attendance. In all my years at Christ Church as his student, he always loved to perform and never gave up the opportunity to share his gift of music that God so generously and graciously gave him. He poured his heart into every note of his music and taught us to do the same! Thank you so much for posting this recording! JBIII played the Wannamaker Ogan ever since his days at Curtis and Christ Church which represent well over 45 years. It should be noted that he also played the organ for Pope John Paul during the Eucharist Congress in 1976.
What a beautiful tribute. In this recording one hears much more than notes...it's extraordinary.