@lizwilliams14 no I mean as in the drop down notification list on my phone, there is also a little notification bell on TH-cam that notifies you when the people you have subscribed to uploaded. It's just on the top right as you open youtube!
@@Hoover22yes. I have that bell checked. I don’t get any drop down on my iPad. Never noticed one on my phone either. I just happened to check TH-cam before I went out side and he had posted this 6 seconds ago! Oh well! Thanks for the help.
Ben started with an apology, but as this week's episode progressed, the hand of a master of a craft began to make itself obvious. He has an intuitive approach to telling a story, and most intriguingly, he draws his audience into the narrative. His obvious love for the English countryside is almost an aphrodisiac to enhance the sights of ancient buildings and sweeping views of meadows, fields, and distant horizons. His skills and talent deserve to be amply rewarded.
Dear Ben thank you again for for another wonderful video the scenery and churches are so lovely in your part of the green and pleasant land as always I do look forward to forward to Sundays take care good less you 🙏👵🏻
Dear Ben your meandering to the churches through the green and pleasant lands is so comforting in the time of turbulence in England. The music is so peaceful. Keep well this week. God bless❤
Well, Ben. TH-cam may be tough, but you've proven that you're tougher! In spite of roaring combines, braying donkeys, stinging nettles and high winds, you managed to produce a fantastic film and supply a lovely Mendelssohn piece on that excellent organ. And you were also able to perfectly weave your own "twinkling" composition and music from the harmonium into the background. I can't deny the fact that I joined in with you in your frustration that you were just SO close to touring your third church -- but not quite able to fit it in! On the other hand, our story now turns into a real "cliff hanger," with your fans having to wait until next week to get the rest of the story. I think you can count on a good turnout for episode 2 next week. In the meantime, please put your feet up, have a hearty meal, re-hydrate, and commit to sleeping at least 12 hours tonight! And we'll all say a prayer of thanks to the Great Redeemer for guiding you safely home.
I have lived in Canada for almost fifty years, but was born in Somerset and grew up in Wiltshire. My sister lives in Salisbury, a short walk from St Martin’s Church. With no regrets on moving to Western Canada, I am surprised and overwhelmed by the power of your stories to stir long buried memories and emotions of my childhood - the lanes, the villages, the churches, the organs, the music and most of all the history. Ben Maton, you have many talents which fuse to ignite deep emotions and a longing for peace and tranquility in troubled times - thank you.
"... maybe you can put it into words better than I can." No, I don't think anyone can. I think you expressed your day's journey beautifully. The Mendelssohn Prelude was gorgeous. Thank you for all that you endure to take us on these journeys with you. Each of your videos is a bright light in my week.
I went to church at a neoclassical gothic cathedral built in the 1860s. It was a traditional Latin mass and the music was gregorian chants. The organ was above the seating and the echoing was absolutely amazing. Nothing better than an old church.
Greetings 😊 from America. Ben,my wife and I are so pleased to have you here in our living room each week. We enjoy the hour we spend with you. It brings joy just to hear your enthusiasm and the excitement in your voice. The knowledge that you have to share with us. The professionalism you display for a person of your age we, all your viewers are taken aback. Thank You, and many enjoy sharing their donations with you.
Ben from the moment any of your videos start you have me in the palm of your hand. There are a few people in our world who’s passion, love and knowledge of their subject make you thirst for more and you are one of them. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
watching these soul-reaching videos has shown me that at 8 decades old my life has been narrowed to the pathways of Ben. Organs possess a personality of resonance and effect like no other instrument. These ancient rock and wood institutes must awaken with every sound of every note played within their space. Notes that have been familiar for eons...once again causing the walls to shiver and absorb the sounds once again. They say every sound made on earth rises into the nebulous and can be heard ethereally, eternally. One day the stone and wood will release all they have absorbed and the sound will be felt by every soul that exists in all time. Is there a better way to spend these days watching and listening to Ben? You can't convince me.
This year me and my son spent the Solstice at Knowlton. Having been stuck in traffic for three hours trying to get to Stonehenge from Salisbury, we gave up. It was magical and possibly the best sunrise I have ever seen actually on the Solstice.
Your ambition is admirable. Who else would try to fit three village churches in one day, on foot, parking in the next village -- it is no small wonder you were exhausted when you arrived at Chalbury. Then you had to make the return walk, heavy rucksack and all. The Witchhampton church is a wonderfully bright space, and the room has the right amount of life (although how you can hear the organ from the console is a mystery). No one plays Mendelssohn anymore. It is unfortunate because his writing is quite inventive -- the six sonatas are wonderful works. I will say that Cwm Rhondda is one of my favourite tunes, there is so much you can do with it. I love the pedal line, it is reminiscent of one of the best pedal lines ever written -- I am, of course, speaking of Sine Nomine -- probably my favourite hymn tune. Even facing this video, you are calm. You accept that there was not enough time to do what you had planned, and that is just fine. I will say it again, your videos are well composed and allow my to live, vicariously, in England for just a bit of time on Sunday afternoons. Pax vobiscum.
I remember before before you had 1k subscribers. Now you're at 32k. You have come great lengths and no matter how well you think the video is produced we will all still listen and enjoy. keep it up! :):):)
Ben, Ben. You don’t understand how peaceful your videos are. I have been making Oboe Reeds all day for my customers and to see the great peace that transcends all the places that you go is just so uplifting. Do not underestimate what you do! Thanks so much. You are a treasure!
£10.61 donated wonderful videos thank you so much. I wondered how you would have coped at the wedding I played for last Saturday. Single manual hand pumped no electricity in church. No time to check out stops. Pumper arrived 10 mins before kick off! Not too bad prior to bride arriving. I pulled out all stops for Bridal March but it was so loud due to a peculiar stop called dia -octon. Poor pumper aged 82 nearly expired😂 Diaocton, 16ft Bourdon, open diapaison 8ft, stop diapaison 8ft, clarabella 8ft, dulciana 8ft, principal 4ft.
No apology needed at the beginning, Ben. We love all your programmes and the beautiful walks you take us on can almost feel like we walk there, too (but they do not tire us sitting comfortably at home 😊). Sundays would never be the same without the evening dose of music, poetry, story and the idyllic scenery all combined by one artistic mind and talent. I was so engrossed watching tonight that I almost forgot my cake in the oven...
I LOVED when the video cut to the stops that were pulled out. That must’ve been annoying to record after the performance, but the little details are what sets you apart! Being able to put a word to the sounds that we’re hearing is very helpful
Thank you for the way you make sense of, gather insights and contextualise the interaction between essentially your story and the wider narrative of the British journey. What characterises or marks you out is your generous-hearted spirit of appreciation. Masterful - from Cape Town, South Africa.
Hi Ben. I'm 73 years old and was an organist and choir master for over 40 years in a small church here in Cape Town. I retired from my church duties 5 years ago. Watching your videos enspired me to once again offer my services in beautifying the house of God. I played in service this morning (Sunday) for the first time in 5 years. Thank you for what you do. I don't think you really know the joy it brings. God bless you.
Thank you Ben for your wonderful videos. I am a pipe organ builder here in Tennessee(USA) and cannot wait to see your next videos. You share places that I would never get to see in the country that my family originally came from. Please know that your work is very much appreciated.
Ben, absolutely no need to apologise. That was an excellent video. Don't be too hard on yourself. I really enjoyed it and the Mendelssohn was a real treat not to mention the hymn. Thanks very much 😊
Ben, you're doing an amazing job with these productions. I'm from the east coast of the United States. Your work will be the only chance I get to see the country sides of where my genealogies started, Thank you.
Ben, I enjoyed listening to your music and your unique story-telling style! I wish so much that I could contribute financially to your mission, but my monthly pitiful, paltry, pittance is barely enough to pay my monthly rent, groceries, and minor expenses. At seventy-six, my overall health is such that I'm unable to perform any sort of work. Sadly, I can't even play the organ any longer because of my crippled right hand. May God continue to Bless you and keep you safe!
I’m an American. And a Christian. I love England and I love your channel. I most of all love the hymns you play so adeptly and beautifully. Do you realize what a wealth of biblical truths are stored up in these old hymns? They tell of the love of God in our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you for all you do in your videos, may the Lord bless you in your work, and may He show Himself more clearly to you as you continue in it.
Although now thousands of miles away from your visits to village churches mostly in South Wiltshire, it brings back so many memories. Growing up in the Swindon area of North Wiltshire, and as a server at Mass from a very early age, ment that my Grandparents and I visited hundreds of churches from Pewsey in mid Wiltshire North into most of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire to the North (1955-1990). I have never and will never forget those journeys, the beauty of those experiences, their incredible and unique history, a total peace, and the overpowering presence of God within each individual church we visited. I fervently hope that others will also join me to support your half hour of bliss each week. Thank you.
My eldest nephew lives in Swindon. I have a sister,her family and a niece in Gloucestershire, and my other sister in Oxfordshire. I haven't been over there for a few years. Ive lived in Australia for nearly forty years now. I get much joy and nostalgia watching Ben's videos. I love him and his brother Billy. Two sensitive, beautiful musicians.
Hello Ben, as you mentioned the clear glass windows it reminded me of the feature of old window glass being "wavy". Before the industrial era window glass was mouth-blown. When restoration is done properly this type of glass should be used. It may be too expensive for small churches, but maybe there is a modern technique that can produce a similar look. A view through an old window glass is even more beautiful than the plain beautiful view through a modern glass. Thank you for taking us to these trips.
This day does suggest why your camper trailer is going to be so useful. If you could have stayed over you might have been able to do justice to the third church. I will keep liking and commenting each week as my small contribution from 12292 km away south.
Thank you Ben taking us through difficult foot paths to reach the Old Churches. I appreciate so much seeing the beautiful English country side, listening to you explaining the history of the Churches and playing the Organ. The last hymn you played, is one of my favorites and in the USA we sing it "Guide me, O Thou Great Jehovah". (Based on Isaiih 58:11) Also I enjoyed listening to Mendelsshon's Prelude in C Minor. Until next time, have a Blessed Week.
It's my personal opinion, Ben, that you don't need to make your journeys more ambitious. It's delightful to spend Sunday afternoon virtually meandering through "England's green and pleasant land". A slower pace is lovely so we can drink in all the beautiful views, listen to the history and enjoy your music. Cheers from Canada.
Another blessed trip through story and time...thank you as always. England is such a beautiful country. It is heartbreaking to hear what is happening to that lovely place. My prayers are for her and for all those who live there. Thank you for letting me glimpse the quiet peacefulness of those quaint villages and historic churches and to hear the time honored glory of those wonderful songs. Blessings Ben for what you do through this channel. I am not able to support you financially but will try and point people in the direction of this great channel. Cheers my friend......cheers!!
Thank you for your thoughts. It is an unsettling time here in the UK, but with Ben's wonderfully sympathetic videos on our quintessential English churches and their history, all is not lost. I believe these troubling times will bring people back to what makes who we are, and our history and these beautiful churches, so evocative of England, will prevail.
Ben, so much to take in! We will be watching/experiencing your journeys for the unforeseeable future and no one can guess the value of your work! Thank you.
Ye, You tube may be tough. As is many of life's challenges. I was very, very fortunate to read two books early in my life.1.The power of positive thinking - Norman Vincent Peal.2.The power of the subconscious mind -Joseph Murray. Lately motivational quotes on the internet such as:::It's not just about being better. It's about being different. You need to give people a reason to choose your business -Tom Abbott-- The last one is a great example of what Ben Maton is doing.....guess that`s why his subscribers is growing to the sky...... Keep on pushing Ben, We adore and admire you and your work....
Hello from Florida from a brit that came over the sea. I love Sundays when I watch your lastest video. Your music choices are always perfect and I love the background music that you play especially on the video of three churches. Thank you for all the effort you put in your talent shines in each video. Btw if you want another father Willis organ to play st John's in Redhill Surrey has one. That was our church before coming state side. Many thanks again
AHHHH!!! The things we do for good video!!! Moral of the story for this triad-of-the-day? What starts in life sometimes must finish in sorrow, only to to be hewn and refined to glory elsewhere after much struggle to rise above!!!
I thought I had a great comment and appreciation for this excellent journey you've taken us on. Only to find everyone said it already. I rejoin the chorus of applause! 🤗
I love your channel! After a busy Sunday playing the organ at my church in Sheffield, I so look forward to coming home and watching your weekly uploads. You inspire me so much and remind me how wonderful and special it is to play a church organ! And thank you for introducing me to Bachs Piece d’orgue the other week! 😊 🎹 🎹 ⛪️ 👼
Based on the title of this video offering, I instantly became prepared & ready to "rail' against any possible TH-cam censorship for "unimaginable" creator violations which are now so regularly in force against those same creators I so willingly support & cherish. Watching further did relieve my fear, but allowed me to comprehend your thorough & complete poetic & romantic side of your interests & personality in what you present to your viewers. I have said so many times before on just how much I appreciate & enjoy what you give to us. You are so extremely sensitive & "hopelessly" romantic with regards to the "stories' you share; and we do "love" you for that!!!! But as an "outsider" & as an American, I appreciate your efforts which define MY IMAGINE of "England's green & pleasant land" (I was well aware of Emerson, Lake & Palmer way before I learned Anglican/Episcopal hymns!) Again, thank you for sharing your wonderful video offerings! This is Peter M; out!
Certainly no apologies needed. All your video, with all their components - planned or unplanned - are always a delight and a welcome respite from the world outside your villages. As an American whose feet are in the US and whose heart is in the UK, (I used to live and attend nursing school in Derby), your videos are a balm. Please keep filming!
Good Lord, I thought you’d been in a car accident! So glad to hear that’s not the case. Amazing that the bramble paths aren’t more covered over. Thanks for taking us on the journey of how you make your journeys. Hope Billy is well and that you’re satisfied with your new caravan. Best wishes from the San Francisco Bay Area!
@@lizwilliams14 Yeah, I guess the parent or grandparent in me was reacting to Ben’s headline that “TH-cam is TOUGH.” Thought something calamitous had happened.
If my Dad was alive, he would have loved your channel for he was also a church organist. He was also the Dean of the American Guild of Organists. He composed music, designed and even built a pipe organ. So many hymns you have played over the months bring so many warm memories as a choir boy under my Dad’s direction. Thank you! Couldn’t find the PayPal link. Have you thought of setting up a “Buy me a coffee “ link? Easy way to generate revenue. My best to you!
Ben, this was one of your most delightful ever episodes! Thoroughly enjoyed the trek with you over (probably) centuries-old footpaths from one village to another. Tom Armstrong's comment really nailed it.
Your ability to express your love for your surroundings, your ability to connect with the living ghosts of the past is a gift. You recognize aspects of the past woven into the present which is extraordinary. Thank you for an incredibly beautiful look into one of your journeys.
Thank you for this week’s episode. My favourite part of this video is the journeying and reflections on how people traversed to these churches. It made me think again about how intimately people knew the landscape and to consider the great distances they walked everyday, with Sunday’s walk to church being the most important of all. The change in the weather on the day of filming is a true representation of the English weather and how it is, and always was, such an important part of the journey. It is an incredible thing to expose oneself to all weather conditions, to experience it fully, and to reflect on other’s experiences through this. You make filming look very natural in the way that you are able to maintain composure and command with so much going on around you, and with so much to think about. I think the last two videos have given an important insight into how much work goes into creating these videos and how tricky it can sometimes be to access these historic places. I am happy that there is a new and exciting video in the works, as a result of this one…journeying onwards.
Thank you for the time and effort required to approach these wonderful buildings by public footpath. It really sets the stage and adds to the sense of place and a better understanding of the importance of churches in traditional village life. I'm of partial Welsh descent and know the last hymn you played as Cwm Rhondda. Aside from the version you shared with us today, my favorite TH-cam performance of the piece has an unlikely provenance.... the fifes and drums of the combined bands of the Brigade of Guards.
Once again an adorable piece of British delight. One also enjoys your picturesque romps through the historic and social landscape of the countryside; quite delicious May I be one of those horrid pendants though, with a small smile If the earlier conurbation was indeed blessed with this Norman church, then it decidedly was a 'Village' and not a 'Hamlet'. A hamlet by archetypical and structural definition is a collection of dwellings without communal constructs like a church or pub or even a 'village green'. So the local community around and associated with that glorious ruined church was a village A hamlet is not completely defined by size, however, possessing such a magnificent church gives the community the honour to be elevated to village status. I would have been proud to have lived in that village a thousand years ago. Isn't it sad that lives of these small communities and the people who walked that henge on their way to worship is lost to us forever Your cameos do give them such dignity and bring back the realisation that these places were made by the toil and love and respect of ordinary English folk in an age before any mass manufacture. Yet they could construct this beautiful building. Thank you for bringing back their memories and achievements through TH-cam, and your channel. As long as that church relic remains, the villagers are still real in memory, which is nice. That's my smile, and a little flag-waving for villagers, rather than 'mere' dwellers in a clustered hamlet 😮... One is, as always, in gratitude for your vlogs. ML
Tears came to my eyes as you approached these ancient churches allowing me to feel perhaps what my English ancestors felt as they journeyed up a similar foot path to worship God who would give them strength to endure whatever trials they were facing. The choice of music was perfect. Thanks from Midwest America.
Ben you are a beautiful magician! . Do not stop recording . Go in peace ,go in joy ,go in love , and thank you for taking us with you every time, I am so grateful . ❤
Thoroughly enjoyed tonight’s video and the 2 churches we toured. I anxiously await next week’s video to see the third church where you left us hanging. Your videos are so much fun, Ben! Great job!
Hi Ben. You did well. All we expect is your heart's best. Do not overwork yourself. I am personally content with one or two churches. They are all uniquely beautiful. You presented this fluently and knowledgeably. 'Biting the bullet' created a masterful work. I look forward to more churches & their history, well executed organ music, and your enthusiastic narrative. If at first you don't succeed... Char
What makes a good sunday night? When Ben Maton's upload appears on my notification list!!
Hey! You’re awesome!
Absolutely not, you make the videos which make my night
I haven’t figured out how to do that. Where do you get the list? I mean is it emailed to you or ….. thanks
@lizwilliams14 no I mean as in the drop down notification list on my phone, there is also a little notification bell on TH-cam that notifies you when the people you have subscribed to uploaded. It's just on the top right as you open youtube!
@@Hoover22yes. I have that bell checked. I don’t get any drop down on my iPad. Never noticed one on my phone either. I just happened to check TH-cam before I went out side and he had posted this 6 seconds ago! Oh well! Thanks for the help.
Ben started with an apology, but as this week's episode progressed, the hand of a master of a craft began to make itself obvious. He has an intuitive approach to telling a story, and most intriguingly, he draws his audience into the narrative. His obvious love for the English countryside is almost an aphrodisiac to enhance the sights of ancient buildings and sweeping views of meadows, fields, and distant horizons. His skills and talent deserve to be amply rewarded.
Dear Ben thank you again for for another wonderful video the scenery and churches are so lovely in your part of the green and pleasant land as always I do look forward to forward to Sundays take care good less you 🙏👵🏻
@@joantennant5579God bless you
Excellent comment 👍
Very kind, thanks
Absolutely agree. Well said Sir.
Dear Ben your meandering to the churches through the green and pleasant lands is so comforting in the time of turbulence in England. The music is so peaceful. Keep well this week. God bless❤
... in the time of turbulence in the world!
God bless you ❤
No matter what you show on YT, it is always a pleasure and very uplifting. Regards from the USA! 🎹🎹🎹🎼🎼🎼👍👍👍
Very beautiful villages. Thank you so much.
Well, Ben. TH-cam may be tough, but you've proven that you're tougher!
In spite of roaring combines, braying donkeys, stinging nettles and high winds, you managed to produce a fantastic film and supply a lovely Mendelssohn piece on that excellent organ. And you were also able to perfectly weave your own "twinkling" composition and music from the harmonium into the background.
I can't deny the fact that I joined in with you in your frustration that you were just SO close to touring your third church -- but not quite able to fit it in! On the other hand, our story now turns into a real "cliff hanger," with your fans having to wait until next week to get the rest of the story. I think you can count on a good turnout for episode 2 next week.
In the meantime, please put your feet up, have a hearty meal, re-hydrate, and commit to sleeping at least 12 hours tonight! And we'll all say a prayer of thanks to the Great Redeemer for guiding you safely home.
Love and Blessings Ben.Till next time🤗💕
A cheese and pickle sandwich reward appears in order.
@@willmears1111 Indeed! At the very least. Along with plenty of orange juice (with or without vodka) to restore those electrolytes.
Footpaths, blackberries, lovely churches. What more could one require from life
Nothing on TH-cam compares to you....
I have lived in Canada for almost fifty years, but was born in Somerset and grew up in Wiltshire. My sister lives in Salisbury, a short walk from St Martin’s Church. With no regrets on moving to Western Canada, I am surprised and overwhelmed by the power of your stories to stir long buried memories and emotions of my childhood - the lanes, the villages, the churches, the organs, the music and most of all the history. Ben Maton, you have many talents which fuse to ignite deep emotions and a longing for peace and tranquility in troubled times - thank you.
Here on the bald prairie of Western Canada it is a joy to see the beauty of England, and to hear the organ played so well.
"... maybe you can put it into words better than I can." No, I don't think anyone can. I think you expressed your day's journey beautifully. The Mendelssohn Prelude was gorgeous. Thank you for all that you endure to take us on these journeys with you. Each of your videos is a bright light in my week.
I would like to hear you to play that Mendelssohn piece at St.Martins. This organ doesn’t do it justice having obviously no upperwork or reeds.
I went to church at a neoclassical gothic cathedral built in the 1860s. It was a traditional Latin mass and the music was gregorian chants. The organ was above the seating and the echoing was absolutely amazing. Nothing better than an old church.
Greetings 😊 from America. Ben,my wife and I are so pleased to have you here in our living room each week. We enjoy the hour we spend with you. It brings joy just to hear your enthusiasm and the excitement in your voice. The knowledge that you have to share with us. The professionalism you display for a person of your age we, all your viewers are taken aback. Thank You, and many enjoy sharing their donations with you.
My pleasure. Thank you both :)
Beautifully put. Bless you.
Ben from the moment any of your videos start you have me in the palm of your hand.
There are a few people in our world who’s passion, love and knowledge of their subject make you thirst for more and you are one of them.
Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
We are fortunate to have Ben...blessed certainly.
watching these soul-reaching videos has shown me that at 8 decades old my life has been narrowed to the pathways of Ben.
Organs possess a personality of resonance and effect like no other instrument. These ancient rock and wood institutes must awaken with every sound of every note played within their space. Notes that have been familiar for eons...once again causing the walls to shiver and absorb the sounds once again. They say every sound made on earth rises into the nebulous and can be heard ethereally, eternally. One day the stone and wood will release all they have absorbed and the sound will be felt by every soul that exists in all time.
Is there a better way to spend these days watching and listening to Ben? You can't convince me.
All I can say, is BRAVO! Yes! I truly believe so!
This year me and my son spent the Solstice at Knowlton. Having been stuck in traffic for three hours trying to get to Stonehenge from Salisbury, we gave up.
It was magical and possibly the best sunrise I have ever seen actually on the Solstice.
Please give Ben a like as it help him get more exposure across the world The bramble and stinging nettles all a long your way
.............and one of my favourite hymns to finish !! Excellent
Your ambition is admirable. Who else would try to fit three village churches in one day, on foot, parking in the next village -- it is no small wonder you were exhausted when you arrived at Chalbury. Then you had to make the return walk, heavy rucksack and all.
The Witchhampton church is a wonderfully bright space, and the room has the right amount of life (although how you can hear the organ from the console is a mystery). No one plays Mendelssohn anymore. It is unfortunate because his writing is quite inventive -- the six sonatas are wonderful works. I will say that Cwm Rhondda is one of my favourite tunes, there is so much you can do with it. I love the pedal line, it is reminiscent of one of the best pedal lines ever written -- I am, of course, speaking of Sine Nomine -- probably my favourite hymn tune.
Even facing this video, you are calm. You accept that there was not enough time to do what you had planned, and that is just fine. I will say it again, your videos are well composed and allow my to live, vicariously, in England for just a bit of time on Sunday afternoons. Pax vobiscum.
That’s a lovely comment to receive. Simply delighted and wishing you a great week
I remember before before you had 1k subscribers. Now you're at 32k. You have come great lengths and no matter how well you think the video is produced we will all still listen and enjoy. keep it up! :):):)
Thank you so much for these interesting jaunts through English countryside by
a most charming host.
Keep on doing what you do. It does not matter witch way you do it,it is still worth the effort,and enjoyable
I really really really love your channel, Ben. There's nothing lovelier than all these quaint villages and their churches. You are amazing
Beautiful music, beautiful scenery. Great job.
Ben, Ben. You don’t understand how peaceful your videos are. I have been making Oboe Reeds all day for my customers and to see the great peace that transcends all the places that you go is just so uplifting. Do not underestimate what you do! Thanks so much. You are a treasure!
Another excellent video. Thank you 😊
Ein großes Glück, ich freue mich, dass es Sie gibt.
Many thanks from an old Anglican Romantic to a younger voyager. Greetings from the Romantic Hudson Valley!
Thank you for uploading this.
£10.61 donated wonderful videos thank you so much. I wondered how you would have coped at the wedding I played for last Saturday. Single manual hand pumped no electricity in church. No time to check out stops. Pumper arrived 10 mins before kick off!
Not too bad prior to bride arriving. I pulled out all stops for Bridal
March but it was so loud due to a peculiar stop called dia -octon. Poor pumper aged 82 nearly expired😂
Diaocton, 16ft Bourdon, open diapaison 8ft, stop diapaison 8ft, clarabella 8ft, dulciana 8ft, principal 4ft.
Thank you! We’ve seen it all us organists!…
No apology needed at the beginning, Ben. We love all your programmes and the beautiful walks you take us on can almost feel like we walk there, too (but they do not tire us sitting comfortably at home 😊). Sundays would never be the same without the evening dose of music, poetry, story and the idyllic scenery all combined by one artistic mind and talent. I was so engrossed watching tonight that I almost forgot my cake in the oven...
I LOVED when the video cut to the stops that were pulled out. That must’ve been annoying to record after the performance, but the little details are what sets you apart! Being able to put a word to the sounds that we’re hearing is very helpful
Thank you for the way you make sense of, gather insights and contextualise the interaction between essentially your story and the wider narrative of the British journey. What characterises or marks you out is your generous-hearted spirit of appreciation. Masterful - from Cape Town, South Africa.
Hi Ben. I'm 73 years old and was an organist and choir master for over 40 years in a small church here in Cape Town.
I retired from my church duties 5 years ago.
Watching your videos enspired me to once again offer my services in beautifying the house of God. I played in service this morning (Sunday) for the first time in 5 years.
Thank you for what you do. I don't think you really know the joy it brings. God bless you.
I absolutely love the music and the silences you put with the Knowlton church.
Thanks
Thanks!
Thank you!
Thank you Ben for your wonderful videos. I am a pipe organ builder here in Tennessee(USA) and cannot wait to see your next videos. You share places that I would never get to see in the country that my family originally came from. Please know that your work is very much appreciated.
Ben, absolutely no need to apologise. That was an excellent video. Don't be too hard on yourself. I really enjoyed it and the Mendelssohn was a real treat not to mention the hymn. Thanks very much 😊
Thanks for the music, sky vistas, the history, and your art.
Ben, you're doing an amazing job with these productions. I'm from the east coast of the United States. Your work will be the only chance I get to see the country sides of where my genealogies started, Thank you.
Ben, I enjoyed listening to your music and your unique story-telling style! I wish so much that I could contribute financially to your mission, but my monthly pitiful, paltry, pittance is barely enough to pay my monthly rent, groceries, and minor expenses. At seventy-six, my overall health is such that I'm unable to perform any sort of work. Sadly, I can't even play the organ any longer because of my crippled right hand.
May God continue to Bless you and keep you safe!
You do your part by liking and commenting as it helps with the YT algorithm. 💕
Thank you for the visit on a Sunday afternoon. Enjoyed and donated.
Wonderful Ben. Thank you so much.
Dear Ben,
THANK YOU.
Regards
D+ W fm SA
Soothing.
Congratulations on reaching that 32K followers mark, Ben!
Thank you for that last hymn, "Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer!" That is a beautiful work.
That hymn ideally needs a larger organ for maximum tonal impact.
The ancient churches are magnificent, but not nearly as mesmerizing as watching you play an organ prelude in a minor key. 🙏
I’m an American. And a Christian. I love England and I love your channel. I most of all love the hymns you play so adeptly and beautifully. Do you realize what a wealth of biblical truths are stored up in these old hymns? They tell of the love of God in our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you for all you do in your videos, may the Lord bless you in your work, and may He show Himself more clearly to you as you continue in it.
I'm a fan of your videos and I think you're a nice person. Greetings from Italy. Hi, Stefano.
Greetings from America where we sing Guide me o Thou Greeat Jehovah.
Although now thousands of miles away from your visits to village churches mostly in South Wiltshire, it brings back so many memories. Growing up in the Swindon area of North Wiltshire, and as a server at Mass from a very early age, ment that my Grandparents and I visited hundreds of churches from Pewsey in mid Wiltshire North into most of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire to the North (1955-1990). I have never and will never forget those journeys, the beauty of those experiences, their incredible and unique history, a total peace, and the overpowering presence of God within each individual church we visited. I fervently hope that others will also join me to support your half hour of bliss each week. Thank you.
My eldest nephew lives in Swindon. I have a sister,her family and a niece in Gloucestershire, and my other sister in Oxfordshire. I haven't been over there for a few years. Ive lived in Australia for nearly forty years now. I get much joy and nostalgia watching Ben's videos. I love him and his brother Billy. Two sensitive, beautiful musicians.
Hello from France. Thank you very much for letting us travell with you. Last sunday morning, during the mass, I played also for you.
Yours
Jacques
Thank you for giving us songs and praises s well as an entertaining story.
Love these videos! Thank you!❤
Ben, a wonderful episode… god bless
Hello Ben, as you mentioned the clear glass windows it reminded me of the feature of old window glass being "wavy". Before the industrial era window glass was mouth-blown. When restoration is done properly this type of glass should be used. It may be too expensive for small churches, but maybe there is a modern technique that can produce a similar look. A view through an old window glass is even more beautiful than the plain beautiful view through a modern glass. Thank you for taking us to these trips.
This day does suggest why your camper trailer is going to be so useful. If you could have stayed over you might have been able to do justice to the third church. I will keep liking and commenting each week as my small contribution from 12292 km away south.
Absolutely
Exceptional & I can't wait for your return visit to Chalbury! Thank you, Ben.
Loved the Mendelssohn! I learned that prelude about 28 years ago. You’ve inspired me to play it again.
Ben, it’s a pleasure just coming along on your journey. You’re a gifted storyteller.
Thank you for the opportunity to travel and experience the environment. And, for the music … one of the best moments of my day.
Thank you so much for your stories and music!
Thank you for you video's and the time you invest to make them. Keep up the good work Ben.
Thank you Ben taking us through difficult foot paths to reach the Old Churches. I appreciate so much seeing the beautiful English country side, listening to you explaining the history of the Churches and playing the Organ. The last hymn you played, is one of my favorites and in the USA we sing it "Guide me, O Thou Great Jehovah". (Based on Isaiih 58:11) Also I enjoyed listening to Mendelsshon's Prelude in C Minor. Until next time, have a Blessed Week.
It's my personal opinion, Ben, that you don't need to make your journeys more ambitious. It's delightful to spend Sunday afternoon virtually meandering through "England's green and pleasant land". A slower pace is lovely so we can drink in all the beautiful views, listen to the history and enjoy your music. Cheers from Canada.
Love your videos.
Thank you for playing Mendelssohn. I love his organ music.
Another blessed trip through story and time...thank you as always. England is such a beautiful country. It is heartbreaking to hear what is happening to that lovely place. My prayers are for her and for all those who live there. Thank you for letting me glimpse the quiet peacefulness of those quaint villages and historic churches and to hear the time honored glory of those wonderful songs. Blessings Ben for what you do through this channel. I am not able to support you financially but will try and point people in the direction of this great channel. Cheers my friend......cheers!!
Thank you for your thoughts. It is an unsettling time here in the UK, but with Ben's wonderfully sympathetic videos on our quintessential English churches and their history, all is not lost. I believe these troubling times will bring people back to what makes who we are, and our history and these beautiful churches, so evocative of England, will prevail.
@@SS-zz4pi well said
Ben, so much to take in! We will be watching/experiencing your journeys for the unforeseeable future and no one can guess the value of your work! Thank you.
Ye, You tube may be tough. As is many of life's challenges. I was very, very fortunate to read two books early in my life.1.The power of positive thinking - Norman Vincent Peal.2.The power of the subconscious mind -Joseph Murray. Lately motivational quotes on the internet such as:::It's not just about being better. It's about being different. You need to give people a reason to choose your business -Tom Abbott-- The last one is a great example of what Ben Maton is doing.....guess that`s why his subscribers is growing to the sky......
Keep on pushing Ben, We adore and admire you and your work....
Hello from Florida from a brit that came over the sea.
I love Sundays when I watch your lastest video. Your music choices are always perfect and I love the background music that you play especially on the video of three churches.
Thank you for all the effort you put in your talent shines in each video.
Btw if you want another father Willis organ to play st John's in Redhill Surrey has one. That was our church before coming state side.
Many thanks again
No need for apology. I loved this video, even the sadness of a derelict building. The memory of all those who worshipped there seems to linger.
Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to excellence! It’s the highlight of each week to see where you take us!
AHHHH!!! The things we do for good video!!! Moral of the story for this triad-of-the-day? What starts in life sometimes must finish in sorrow, only to to be hewn and refined to glory elsewhere after much struggle to rise above!!!
Rather good journey again, high quality indeed. Can't wait to see these places of worship and hear the hymns and those magnificent organ works again.
I thought I had a great comment and appreciation for this excellent journey you've taken us on. Only to find everyone said it already. I rejoin the chorus of applause! 🤗
I love your channel! After a busy Sunday playing the organ at my church in Sheffield, I so look forward to coming home and watching your weekly uploads. You inspire me so much and remind me how wonderful and special it is to play a church organ! And thank you for introducing me to Bachs Piece d’orgue the other week!
😊 🎹 🎹 ⛪️ 👼
You would have gotten along well with JRR Tolkien. He felt the same way about cars in the English countryside.
Based on the title of this video offering, I instantly became prepared & ready to "rail' against any possible TH-cam censorship for "unimaginable" creator violations which are now so regularly in force against those same creators I so willingly support & cherish. Watching further did relieve my fear, but allowed me to comprehend your thorough & complete poetic & romantic side of your interests & personality in what you present to your viewers. I have said so many times before on just how much I appreciate & enjoy what you give to us. You are so extremely sensitive & "hopelessly" romantic with regards to the "stories' you share; and we do "love" you for that!!!! But as an "outsider" & as an American, I appreciate your efforts which define MY IMAGINE of "England's green & pleasant land" (I was well aware of Emerson, Lake & Palmer way before I learned Anglican/Episcopal hymns!) Again, thank you for sharing your wonderful video offerings! This is Peter M; out!
Certainly no apologies needed. All your video, with all their components - planned or unplanned - are always a delight and a welcome respite from the world outside your villages. As an American whose feet are in the US and whose heart is in the UK, (I used to live and attend nursing school in Derby), your videos are a balm. Please keep filming!
All happens for a reason .You were obviously meant to return .I'm not alone in looking forward .Many thanks It worked out perfectly . Greetings .
The church and village of Witchhampton are stunning. From those who will never get to see them in person, thank you for a delightful tour.
I am so happy to have found you on TH-cam. You are a breath of fresh air!
Greetings from Ohio, USA
Good Lord, I thought you’d been in a car accident! So glad to hear that’s not the case. Amazing that the bramble paths aren’t more covered over. Thanks for taking us on the journey of how you make your journeys. Hope Billy is well and that you’re satisfied with your new caravan. Best wishes from the San Francisco Bay Area!
A car accident???
@@lizwilliams14 Yeah, I guess the parent or grandparent in me was reacting to Ben’s headline that “TH-cam is TOUGH.” Thought something calamitous had happened.
I do enjoy your stories and about the places and organs
If my Dad was alive, he would have loved your channel for he was also a church organist. He was also the Dean of the American Guild of Organists. He composed music, designed and even built a pipe organ. So many hymns you have played over the months bring so many warm memories as a choir boy under my Dad’s direction. Thank you!
Couldn’t find the PayPal link. Have you thought of setting up a “Buy me a coffee “ link? Easy way to generate revenue.
My best to you!
What a lovely man you are, full of respect for churches, it brought a tear to my eye.
Ben, this was one of your most delightful ever episodes! Thoroughly enjoyed the trek with you over (probably) centuries-old footpaths from one village to another. Tom Armstrong's comment really nailed it.
Absolutely loved this video!! The story is superb told! Brilliant!! Well done!! Thank you very much indeed!!
Your ability to express your love for your surroundings, your ability to connect with the living ghosts of the past is a gift. You recognize aspects of the past woven into the present which is extraordinary. Thank you for an incredibly beautiful look into one of your journeys.
Thank you for this week’s episode. My favourite part of this video is the journeying and reflections on how people traversed to these churches. It made me think again about how intimately people knew the landscape and to consider the great distances they walked everyday, with Sunday’s walk to church being the most important of all.
The change in the weather on the day of filming is a true representation of the English weather and how it is, and always was, such an important part of the journey. It is an incredible thing to expose oneself to all weather conditions, to experience it fully, and to reflect on other’s experiences through this.
You make filming look very natural in the way that you are able to maintain composure and command with so much going on around you, and with so much to think about.
I think the last two videos have given an important insight into how much work goes into creating these videos and how tricky it can sometimes be to access these historic places.
I am happy that there is a new and exciting video in the works, as a result of this one…journeying onwards.
Thanks Miranda, I appreciate this very much :)
Thank you for the time and effort required to approach these wonderful buildings by public footpath. It really sets the stage and adds to the sense of place and a better understanding of the importance of churches in traditional village life.
I'm of partial Welsh descent and know the last hymn you played as Cwm Rhondda. Aside from the version you shared with us today, my favorite TH-cam performance of the piece has an unlikely provenance....
the fifes and drums of the combined bands of the Brigade of Guards.
Once again an adorable piece of British delight.
One also enjoys your picturesque romps through the historic and social landscape of the countryside; quite delicious
May I be one of those horrid pendants though, with a small smile
If the earlier conurbation was indeed blessed with this Norman church, then it decidedly was a 'Village' and not a 'Hamlet'.
A hamlet by archetypical and structural definition is a collection of dwellings without communal constructs like a church or pub or even a 'village green'.
So the local community around and associated with that glorious ruined church was a village
A hamlet is not completely defined by size, however, possessing such a magnificent church gives the community the honour to be elevated to village status.
I would have been proud to have lived in that village a thousand years ago. Isn't it sad that lives of these small communities and the people who walked that henge on their way to worship is lost to us forever
Your cameos do give them such dignity and bring back the realisation that these places were made by the toil and love and respect of ordinary English folk in an age before any mass manufacture. Yet they could construct this beautiful building.
Thank you for bringing back their memories and achievements through TH-cam, and your channel.
As long as that church relic remains, the villagers are still real in memory, which is nice.
That's my smile, and a little flag-waving for villagers, rather than 'mere' dwellers in a clustered hamlet 😮...
One is, as always, in gratitude for your vlogs.
ML
I love what you do, Ben, I love the beauty and spirit of England you tap into, I love your music, and your words. Thank you!
Tears came to my eyes as you approached these ancient churches allowing me to feel perhaps what my English ancestors felt as they journeyed up a similar foot path to worship God who would give them strength to endure whatever trials they were facing. The choice of music was perfect. Thanks from Midwest America.
Ben you are a beautiful magician! . Do not stop recording . Go in peace ,go in joy ,go in love , and thank you for taking us with you every time, I am so grateful . ❤
What a lovely video👏🏻👏🏻 Thank you so much Ben for playing “Guide me oh Thou Great Redeemer. I love this hymn. It brought tears to my eyes.
Thoroughly enjoyed tonight’s video and the 2 churches we toured. I anxiously await next week’s video to see the third church where you left us hanging. Your videos are so much fun, Ben! Great job!
Thank you very much for the pilgrimage on the last Sunday of summer. 🙏"Go in Peace - Go in Joy -Go in Love" 🌿🌿🌿💥❤🍂🍃
Hi Ben. You did well. All we expect is your heart's best. Do not overwork yourself. I am personally content with one or two churches. They are all uniquely beautiful. You presented this fluently and knowledgeably. 'Biting the bullet' created a masterful work. I look forward to more churches & their history, well executed organ music, and your enthusiastic narrative. If at first you don't succeed... Char