York Minster's Grand Organ - Toccata (Symphony for Organ No 5) Charles-Marie Widor

[@marccheban194]

Finally! An organist who plays the opening measures (before the pedal enters) the way they were articulated by Widor! He continues to follow Widor's instructions throughout till the end. In my opinion, there is not a better, more authentic performance of this ground-breaking piece on KZbin. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

[@SirReginaldBlomfield1234]

There are a few other eminent players that are of a similar standard. This is excellent but not by any means unique.

[@chucklambooy8457]

Absolutely ❤

[@ablewindsor1459]

One top flight rendention is by Katelyn Emerson...and the one from the 1920s by the Composer himself, all found currently on U Tub. Another Great Performance is played on the organ in the chapel of St Stanislaus Institution by Janez Rus in December 2011. The mentor was doc. Dalibor Miklavči And Posted under the Channel..... janezrus8

[@georgemurphy2579]

Marc...there are numerous factors involved here. Player, instrument, building acoustics, mood, etc... No piece of music is ever performed in exactly the same manner each time it is executed. Lest we not forget also the hours and hours of discussions on interpretation that surround these performances. Jeanne Demessieux is said to have played the definitive rendition at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. But again, it is purely subjective. I agree that we do have a winner here!

[@johnnolf57]

LOVELY, however not a favorite of this particular piece of beautiful music.

[@JimF-b8m]

Played as the postlude at both my mother and fathers funerals. The promise of Eternal Life cannot be reflected more in a piece of music. Magnificent.

[@waldenhouse]

Written for a Funeral, apparently.

[@tamiasthechipmunk]

The acid test that only the best of the best organists can pass is playing the Widor Taccata at the right tempo. This organist played this piece at the right tempo.

[@michaelwascom62]

He also correctly observes the dynamics. This wonderful composition is too often performed TOO fast and TOO loud.

[@JohanDas]

fully agreed

[@JB-td4ei]

The tempo for this work and others like it, is based upon the room acoustics. In acoustically dead or dry North American churches, a faster tempo is required to keep the celestial illusion going, and to frankly cover up mistakes which present much more glaringly in such acoustics. Virgil Fox has the definitive tempo in my mind, though I take it slower myself.

[@waldenhouse]

Diane Bish’s rendition is SO “Liberace” it ranks high on the scale of plastic showmanship!

[@poppyrowland1385]

I just came here to say the same thing. Excellent tempo! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@txcrix9236]

You can't tell me the cathedrals and abbeys of Europe aren't the most majestic works of architecture man could ever create. Add the acoustics and the pipe organ and it's beyond words.

[@chrisp0315]

What a splendid rendition of Widor’s Toccata.

[@mrkiplingreallywasanexceed8311]

...or even Toccata😏

[@chrisp0315]

@@mrkiplingreallywasanexceed8311 fixed it.

[@BarbaraCRANMER-f1m]

We chose this music for our wedding in 1970. I recently lost my beloved husband and am heartbroken, but hearing Vidor's beautiful piece now and again is a comfort. Thank you.

[@Patracat]

My sincere condolences. I was married in 1980 and my husband died in 2022. Am still coming to terms with my loss. We both loved organ music and when I hear something like this I feel as if he is smiling down at me and telling me to enjoy it as if he was sitting with me.

[@ianmarriott1124]

RIP Mr Cranmer, Barbara. I hope this wonderful piece, so masterfully played here give you comfort in your time off loss.

[@christopherandrews2594]

Hearing this again six months later my opinion has not changed. This is the best of the best. Bravo.

[@timothylefstead3432]

I so agree!

[@TheManunderwater]

Perfect - speed, power, precision, delicacy, timbre and more - and what magnicent acoustic of York Minister. Amazing!!

[@janemulvaney2163]

I asked for this at my wedding and was told that it was a difficult piece to play and not possible. After we signed the register the priest said ‘Here’s you music and the organist started to play. It was so beautiful.

[@davidgreen6563]

Originally a York boy but have been living overseas for the last 50 years. After hearing this the tears flowed and I want to come home so badly. Thank you so much for this piece, please make me more homesick, please,please,please.

[@johnyates2157]

I am sure you will do one day.

[@davidgreen6563]

@@johnyates2157 Thank you John I am wishing for it.

[@sohowsoon6652]

your wish has been granted

[@samrodian919]

Then get on a plane, Leeds Bradford is probably your nearest airport lol

[@johnyates2157]

I would put you up I live in the east Midlands .

[@nigelt4257]

Finally! An organist who plays the piece with, not only brilliant musicianship but, a thorough of understanding of Widor's intentions. This is super! Ok, it's not a French Cavaillé-Coll organ (on which IMHO it sounds best, just because of the reeds) but it's completely at home in this swirling acoustic. Bravo Mr Morris for such excellent and sensitive playing of a wonderful piece, brilliant registrations and fantastically judged tempi, so often abused by organists world wide. Thank you!

[@rowanlidbury]

Well he's had more time with it.

[@nigelt4257]

@@rowanlidbury Pardon? More time with what?

[@sheepdog9683]

on this organ it is movingly majestuous ! (IMHO)

[@lukefowler9740]

100% agree. Fantastic interpretation, the articulation in the coda is particularly effective and really draws attention to something new happening when most other organists are just going through the motions at that point. English organs are a bit like German organs when it comes to French music, the mixtures are just a bit too metallic and bright and although the English reeds are a bit more fiery, they just don't have the brutal roar of the Appel d'anche where everything comes out. Cavaille-coll organs are something else entirely. Even though he played around with fourniture/cymbale vs a single Plein jeu, there is always a beauty and a delicacy to the sound. The montres are robust but still with that breathy "flutey" quality and he often reused old Cliquot reed pipes which gives some real fire. You can't beat music played on the instruments for which it was written!

[@christhompson1667]

If you're after a French Cavaillé-Coll organ version, there's an excellent one of Jonathan Scott playing it on the organ of Manchester Town Hall

[@rogerneal6329]

I chose this pice to be played as I walked out of church with my beautiful wife, and we are still together after 46 years and I love her mor now than ever before!

[@abchaplin]

As did I 40 years ago at St. Matthew's, Ottawa, where I had heard it as a boy chorister. It was a discovery for my new bride, who was raised in the United Church of Canada, and it was a pleasant surprise for her. My Québécois groomsmen knew it, but it surprised the Baptist New Brunswicker in their company. It always brings back many happy memories.

[@bgjobass]

This colossal composition always has me at the highest thoughts of the glory, beauty and majesty of Widor’s genius compositional gifts! I loved this piece upon first hearing of it as a college student at University, and it was my Youth Orchestra Director who was indeed performing it, at the Great Organ of the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

[@neiljosephbennett9119]

Blimey!! That was amazing! And from memory too!!!

[@susanvogel3376]

We practice so often we have every note memorized by the time we perform!

[@poppyrowland1385]

Most concerts are played from memory.

[@davepov]

To me Benjamin Morris and people like him who can play a pipe organ this well are magicians! To make both hands and both feet all do something different at the same time is mind-boggling. It took me years to learn to play the guitar well and that's only two hands. Amazing! Beautiful!

[@praestant8]

The final of widor 5 isn't by any means the most technically demanding either. It is simple chordal arpeggios with a slow theme in the pedal.

[@yourenglishclasses]

as a former organist (I haven´t had the opportunity to play for many years as I live in Spain) you are absolutely right. To have all four limbs going at the same time, sometimes all in different directions is no mean feat. You also have to read not just two , but three staves of music.

[@JennyJeong425]

@@yourenglishclasses But there are so many cathedrals in Spain, aren't there? It seems as though you'd have lots of opportunities to play. That's a shame.

[@yourenglishclasses]

@@JennyJeong425 Unfortunately there are no cathedrals anywhere near me. We do have tow parish churches though. I don´t know if they even have organs.......

[@lukedaniel7669]

@@praestant8 the majesty of the Toccata lies in its subtlety and restraint when it's played at the right tempo to match the reverberation of the building and the sound washes around and back - you get a totally immersive experience. When it's played fast it is exciting to hear but it's a totally different experience.

[@catherinekershaw903]

I love the echo at the end when he is finished......it touchs my soul. We had this played at out wedding 20 years ago , however our church organist got sick and the only other one available was the organist from the funeral home that our minister knew. He did a sterlung job, and also commented that it was lovely to play at a wedding for a change!!!.

[@clarktrent8952]

I'm *so* glad Mr. Morris plays this work at or near to the *original* tempo that Charles Marie Widor wanted (you can watch and hear Mr. Widor himself play his work also on youtube, believe it or not) ahem. I choral concert- toured here from the US, waaay back in 1975, and I was initially so disappointed that it wasn't Westminster... until I sang in and saw this impressive edifice. What incredible acoustics, and they provide a wonderful chamber from which this organ speaks, as Mr. Morris speaks to the beauty, dignity, and grandeur of this work. Thank You

[@hb1338]

Widor's recording was made when he was an old man in his 80s, and was made on an organ with a very heavy tracker action. The score is marked _Allegro_ which is significantly faster than Widor played it and rather faster than the tempo chosen by Mr Morris. The key (no pun intended) to the work is to articulate the chords in the left hand so that they impart a sense of movement, otherwise there is a danger that it trundles along in a dull way.

[@pst3615]

What a privilige it must be to play this magnificent instrument, it sounds even better than before. York Minster and her organ is a must see, what a magnificent place.

[@at0mcollision]

I agree- I have had the pleasure of visiting the Minster and even playing the absolute beast of an organ! It sounds incredible and fills the building very well.

[@pst3615]

@@at0mcollision We've visited the York Minster in 2007 and while taking in the all inspiring grandure someone played the organ very gentle and soft and despite the recognision of the piece then played, I still can't name it, but is was awe inspiring. Hopefully we'll be able to visit again and be lucky enough that the voice of the organ reaches out again.

[@at0mcollision]

@@pst3615 the York organ has a massive dynamic range- the echo dulciana on the solo is almost inaudible with the box shut, but on the other hand it has what's probably one of the loudest organ stops in the world!

[@pst3615]

@@at0mcollision Just listen to this, a small town organ with back then a very promissing young man who has earned his name in the ranks.

[@hb1338]

@@at0mcollision The Tuba Mirabilis makes a mighty sound, but If you really want loud, try the _en chamade_ trumpets at the west end of St Paul's or the Trompette Militaire in Liverpool Cathedral, which are ear-splitting.

[@peterstorandt5664]

Beautifully played as Widor intended. The piece we love breathes under Ben's masterful interpretation. This was our wedding recessional in 1969 and is my happiest memory of that day with my late wife who died at 33 ten years later. The music is binding.

[@mrfixit0273]

The minster is not only blessed with this iconic instrument, but also with its incredible musicians, Ben & Robert. I’ve met both - perfect gentlemen. Thank you Ben for this stunning performance. Lovely to hear it played as Widor intended and not at break neck speed.

[@ringerpaul3118]

After all it's not meant to be a race to the finish, is it?

[@jordythefilmmaker317]

right...I've seen/heard it played at 'breakneck speed'. it ABSOLUTELY RUINS IT. There IS a clip of Widor himself playing it (mistakes and all, bless his heart) and he does it rather slowly.

[@hb1338]

Would you consider this tempo to be _Allegro_ which is how the score is marked ? I would classify it as _Allegro moderato_ but it's none the worse for that.

[@monicacall7532]

My mom was professional organist and raised me on Bach, Widor and Vierne. This was a favorite of both of us. Bravo to the organist! What a marvelous interpretation of this challenging piece. I wish that my mom were alive to see this video. She would’ve loved it. Thank you. 🙏🎵

[@MaryPrather]

It was a dream come true to have this played at my wedding at Lutheran Church of The Redeemer (Atlanta, Georgia, USA) in 1997 for my wedding - the pipe organ and organist there are FABULOUS. I could hardly contain my joy!

[@YorkMinsterOfficial]

Hi Mary. Very glad you enjoyed the video of the Assistant Director of Music playing Widor's Toccata. - Rosalind

[@brianthesnail3815]

I didn't know York Minister had a fire in 1829. I lived on a farm when I was a teenager and we could look across the Vale of York to see the Minster in the far distance. I still to this day remember waking up very early and looking out of my bedroom window as I opened the curtains on the day in 1984 to see it on fire and shouting for my parents to come and look. We stood there open mouthed and hoping against hope it would be saved. So glad it was and this lovely organ with it. I live in another great cathedral city now and like York Minster it has both an amazing organ, choir and a very fine set of bells. The cathedrals and their musical heritage truly are national treasures.

[@timfugmann8935]

The rebuild of the Minster instrument; the removal of decades of grubble work and changes to suit a taste of the time is met with many smiles and joy here. What a glory it is now. What fine job playing it too!

[@anth5122]

Well those music lessons paid off

[@mymanjosquin]

lol

[@SordidGuy]

This performance brought absolutely the most wonderful tears to my eyes! STUNNING! Directly to my "listen again" favorites... Thanks!!!

[@kentbloxham3826]

Thank You for not rushing this Magnificent Toccata and playing it perfectly, as it was intended to be played!! Triumphant, yet sedate. Congratulations on a flawless performance 🙏🕊✝️🕊🛐🕊🙏

[@ChristyGrose-gp2mf]

Amazing!!!!!! Absolutely fabulous job rendered here, THANK YOU!

[@davidllewelyndavies2724]

I once heard this played in Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral. The organist had been requested to 'give it some welly', he did, he gave it 'rock all' - I am amazed the cathedral is still standing!

[@kentbloxham3826]

@@davidllewelyndavies2724 Widor wrote these stunning footnotes on the pedal board for a reason, to add the thunder to back the incredible piece. Nothing annoys me more than listening to the many organists who do not take full advantage of using them as they were intended, thereby significantly downgrading this inexplicably magnificent piece 🙏🕊✝️🕊🛐🕊🙏

[@Sebastian-tf5vr]

You are so right-organists rush this to be competitive-it is meant to be enjoyed -not rushed!!!!!

[@hb1338]

The marking on the score is _Allegro_ , which does not imply sedate.

[@PODIE100]

Benjamin! holy shit, I listen to organists playing this piece and they play it to show off how fast they can play... Brother, I would love to meet you.. I play guitar in a Rory Gallagher tribute band ( the most opposite music we could imagine.. ) but I've just listened to that performance six or seven times.. and man you rock!!

[@PODIE100]

eight times, and it's getting better!

[@coconutdreams1238]

As an agnostic person, I don't often get to go to churches and hear organ music. However last time I did, they played this piece and it blew my mind. One of the, if not THE most beautiful piece of music I have ever heard. Hats down to the organist who was playing it, an incredible tune in so many ways.

[@davewesley11]

THAT WAS BREATHTAKING .. what a talented man. So wish I had been sat in the cathedral when he was playing that. I could sit there all day why he played Brilliant.

[@grahamnancledra7036]

In the late 1970's I visited York on a British Rail Special excursion from Bristol. £3 student rate. I walked into the Minster and the Widor Toccata was being played just as I entered. It filled the whole of the church. It made my first trip to York so memorable. I am so pleased to find this video. Many thanks. (PS, The Organ is not as good as our Willis here at Truro but as a true full blooded Cornishman, born and bred, I bound by blood to sat that. Yorkies should understand the Sentiment)

[@samrodian919]

You do know that the organ was built in London at the New Rotunda works of Henry Willis and sons don't you? The work was destroyed in the blitz of I think 1941 or 1942. True London craftsmen lol later on Willis's settled in Petersfield in Hampshire until going to the wall in the mid 1990's. The Willis name was taken over and a firm in Liverpool started using the name ( Willis's did have a shop in Liverpool as well to work on the Anglican Cathedral organ, but I don't know when it closed.

[@bernadettemcpolin1904]

One of my favourite pieces of music for the organ. This is probably one of the loveliest and best interpretations of this iconic piece by Widor that I’ve heard. It’s a beautiful fresh sound enhanced greatly by the splendid acoustic in the Minister.

[@SebastianWellsTL]

The pipe organ is truly one of the most beautiful and powerful instruments in history!

[@rogerneal6329]

The pipe organ is the nearest instrument to the human voice!

[@SebastianWellsTL]

@@rogerneal6329 That's a fascinating way of looking at it!

[@spikespa5208]

Music and an instrument to shake your soul.

[@sarahmason7544]

Totally agree

[@aidenmclaughlin1076]

When my family and I visited England (May 2022), the organ just so happened to be undergoing its once a century service! What a shame! However, my organ professor, Dr. Thomas Marshall, told me he once got the opportunity to play that incredible looking instrument. Maybe one day I’ll get to do the same!

[@ianmarriott1124]

Played with precision and as Vidor wrote it and at a vert sensible pace given the size of the Minster, Benjamin. I am an ex organ builder, and had the great pleasure of meeting Dr Francis Jackson in around 1971 when he opened the Father Willis organ taken from St Augustin's Haggerston in Bethnal Green, E2, and refurbished by NP Mander Ltd and installed in St. Dunstan's and All Saints Stepney E1. I was a tuners boy on that occasion and we had just finished tuning the instrument prior to the opening, when Dr Jackson arrived to practice. I remember he was going to play Bach's E flat Major St.Anne Prelude and Fugue and I watched amazed as he played it from memory, very fast and he played the pedals without his shoes on! That was 53 years ago and I remember it as if it were yesterday!

[@elizabethgrant70]

This piece and Zadoc the Priest send shivers down my spine every time I hear them.

[@a.f.4248]

ZadoK.

[@hb1338]

The organ part in Zadok is less taxing than the Widor !

[@elizabethgrant70]

Me too.

[@SnowyAspenHills]

Same and sung it there as a choir boy half a century ago.

[@marcellocolona4980]

I was in the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Newark, NJ, during Pope St John Paul II’s visit, and this was played as ‘exit’ music for His Holiness. He was totally blown away.

[@matthewshaw988]

As an 8 year old chorister in Shrewsbury, I heard our choirmaster John Sykes play this piece occasionally after Eucharist from 1968. Until viewing this video I didn’t realise it was “trendy”, being showcased only in 1961. I watched in the organ loft as John worked a lot more frantically. I was waiting for my lift home.

[@chrisacres]

He was pretty good in Whitesnake too.

[@paulmallett3576]

Pat and I had this piece played at our wedding in July 1982 at St Peter's, Derby. Excuse me while I have a little cry: the emotion has got to me!!🎶🥰

[@АнатолийПономарев-з8ц]

Спасибо за искренность! Вы- счастливый человек! Самые добрые пожелания вашей семье!

[@bootman26]

How can he sit so still with so much power at his fingertips? I'm amused by the crayola pipes that reflect the stained glass. His interperation reflects the architechture of the building, well-planned, breathtakingly beautiful, tasteful, perfect. I also appreciate the aerial view of the chest to see that some of the pipes have been installed sideways. Really love this video.

[@elsaarmstrong-zp6ng]

I remembered about 10 years. Ago visiting York Minster standing next to one of these massive bass pipes! When it sounded you didn’t hear it but you felt the massive pressure wave! I didn’t stay to long as my inside was vibrating! A great sound overall! That’s why they call it the King of Instruments! Fraser❤

[@michaelkoenig8449]

Absolute perfection! Would love to hear this piece in-person to feel the power of those 32 foot pipes!

[@johannessilver8653]

I was able to feel similar 32 foot pipes in Tampere Cathedral when this masterpiece was performed. One really should be available instead of listening this via computer headphones. My body was shaking almost during those pipes on.

[@PMS1950]

The equally impressive instrument at Hereford Cathedral allows you to stand next to its 32ft pedal reeds and I made a great recording on my mini disc (old technology but very capable) of Roy Massey playing the Widor 5 for a wedding. The addition of these reeds at the conclusion of the toccata is absolutely fabulous and although lacking a little finesse gives a truly up close and personal experience of these acoustic wonders in action and providing the bassus profundi like nothing else.

[@adrianjohnson7920]

I have been at York Minster when this piece was played. One's internal organs vibrate in harmony with some notes. There are harmonics that seem to be subsonic, and the neural reaction of one's whole body sends delicious shivers from the centre of the back out to the neck, arms and legs. I felt like I was *inside* the music as well as the brain of the composer. My pancreas did a delighted little gavotte on my liver . . . . afterward, I and several other people wafted out of the building looking like we'd just had a good trip on psychedelics. . . . . .

[@hb1338]

@@adrianjohnson7920 Many years ago, I spent a week depping in Winchester Cathedral. On Saturday, we sang at the wedding of the daughter of the Bishop of Southampton. David Hill pulled rank over his assistant (Timothy Byram-Wigfield) and played the Widor at the end of the service; the entire choir gawped as the rood screen shook and rattled violently in response to the pedal notes - quite how it stayed in one piece we shall never know.

[@adrianjohnson7920]

@@hb1338 That's the spirit ! It's like music for the end of the world, but in a good way 😆

[@orlando1a1]

An astonishing performance - thank you, Benjamin Morris, for a truly superlative rendition of a very difficult piece that requires so much sustained focus and musicality.

[@montyzumazoom1337]

Love it! Had this played at my wedding walking my new wife down the aisle. Impressive piece played beautifully. Iv'e been to York Minster and heard this magnificent instrument live, every bone in your body feels it.

[@davidlaing7684]

Same here at my wedding in 1977.

[@jerrycallender9927]

Religions one contribution to Mankind. Epic buildings for which grand organs were built for magnificent music to be written. Benjamin Morris does Widor proud!

[@sallyspencer5624]

I've been to York and visited the Minster, it's absolutely magnificent and the sound of the organ is beautiful beyond words. The organ was playing while I was there for short time it was beautiful beyond words. I would gladly go to a Sunday service just to hear the Organ and I am not a member of the Church of England.

[@samrodian919]

Beautifully played on a magnificent instrument.. I've never had the privilege of visiting York Minster to my sadness, however as a young organ builder at the age of 17;or so I had the privilege of meeting and watching Francis Jackson practicing to open the organ of Saint Dunstan's and All Saint's Stepney in East London which was removed from All Saint's Haggarston off Hackney road and refurbished prior to its installation at the Stepney church. I stood and watched him play the JS Bach St Anne prelude and Fugue in E flat in stockinged feet after we had tuned the instrument and it for a young organ builder who just loved organ music to meet and watch one of the country's premier organists practicing and answering my banal questions was the best thing. The refurbished organ at York is still one of the premier organs of Britain and sounds magnificent on this video.

[@marylogan]

Absolutely magic❤❤❤. Growing up in the Anglican Church in S. West, Cape Town, I remember our organist playing this exactly as it is being played here. I used to sit paralysed until the last note died away. I was in my early teens and this one was my all time favourite along with Jeremiah Clarke's Trumpet Voluntary * (as I was corrected 😏) ❤

[@mrkiplingreallywasanexceed8311]

Or Jeremiah Clarke, even....🧐😎🙂

[@jimthorne304]

I heard this being performed at a wedding in York Minster. I was so impressed I went home and ordered the complete organ works of Bach. ... It took 5 hours to download!

[@aboutfacesusan]

We at Christ Church Episcopal in Savannah are delighted to have Harrison & Harrison, the builder of the York Minster organ, build an entirely new edition of our existing H &H instrument for delivery in 2026. This will be the church’s Tricentennial Organ, and Harrison & Harrison’s third organ built in the US. Our music director, the respected and esteemed George Fergus, formerly of The National Cathedral in Washington, DC, is at the helm of this wonderful project. What a pleasure to hear such a great rendition of the Widor Toccata on this amazing organ!

[@YorkMinsterOfficial]

You are fortunate indeed - a bounty of riches! Is there a way to keep abreast of the build of the new organ at Christ Church?

[@aboutfacesusan]

@@YorkMinsterOfficial the Vestry will be signing a contract with Harrison & Harrison this week. I will forward your inquiry to George Fergus, our music director and organist. He can provide a better answer than I can. Thank you so much for being as excited as we are!

[@srelizabethmaryhermit6450]

The Toccata was played as the postlude for my Final Religious profession as the postlude. Just glorious!

[@craigborgardt6396]

Large, well-maintained, properly registered and professionally paid pipe organs in large cathedrals produce sound that is unmatched anywhere by a single instrument. We were blessed to enter Notre Dame/Paris in Oct/2018 during an installation mass and the big organ was pumping out the mighty chords of the ancient liturgical verses...positively enthralling and I'm Lutheran.

[@JennyJeong425]

This gives me chills. This young man is truly gifted.

[@mullawa]

And practices a lot.

[@jorgkukla8097]

I love this Toccata much more that that famous Bach's - but with this organ, it is really breathtaking. I had the feeling of light and being empowered. Thank you for this masterpiece.

[@paulinereid5226]

Oh, this is so wonderful! I remember hearing this when the Duke and Duchess of Kent's wedding was televised, in 1961. I was a nipper then but this piece has stayed with me throughout my life. I've heard many renderingsgs of it, and many organists play it, but this is the first time, since that wedding in 1961, that I have heard it again, in all it's beauty and grandeur . Thank you for posting this.

[@susanyates4233]

I first heard it played at Princess Margaret's wedding. My Father was an organist.

[@waldenhouse]

Bravo Benjamin! Francis was a true friend and teacher, and close associate. Best wishes. Robert Denton. Leeds Parish Church 1963-1971.

[@paultrussy]

I have a very very broad taste in music reflecting all sides of my character but this is, by a very long English country mile, the best and most powerful piece of music that I have ever heard. I am a teenager of the 70s weened on progressive rock and now in my 60s listening to most forms of rock, punk, new wave, NWOBHM, symphonic metal, reggae, west African, even a little Slipknot (am I insane?); Yes, Genesis, Pink Floyd, ELP, Focus, Jethro Tull (ie all the usual culprits) being foremost in my most formative years. It is particularly good to hear this new recording made in one of my favourite places of worship which is architecturally magnificent beyond words. These days some social media users like to tell Christians that they believe in "the sky fairy"; in response I would like to ask them therefore, if their assertion is true, what else motivated these great works of art in music, engineering and architecture? Love? Money? Slavery? Threat of torture? All four? What?! Perhaps they would like to take a seat alone in this majestic building, with the Minster organist repeating this performance, and consider their answer... After 47 years my brother recently moved from East Yorkshire to Scotland, so I am particularly grateful to York Minster's media department for sharing this. York is one of my favourite cities holding many precious memories for me; central to all these is The Minster. I hope the organ architects/designers/installers are proud of what they have achieved. They should be. This is not just honouring to God but also honouring to those that toiled centuries ago for His Glory. They were not deluded, they were doing what came naturally - responding to their Creator!

[@sidpheasant7585]

Yes, Paul, as I post about God and about the Holy Spirit's inspiration of music, I get a certain amount of flak back about "religion" (they always use that word, and yet I talk about the Holy Spirit) and indeed "the sky fairy". Of course, it bothers me rather little. Congratulations on your broad musical tastes, which I have been working on steadily for many years now. Rather ridiculously, I grew up believing classical music was "obviously" better than popular, which I now know is QUITE wrong. Widor's "Toccata" is of course wonderful, but I do get as much Holy Spirit from "the way it is" by Bruce Hornsby, or indeed from Duran Duran's "Ordinary World", or "Another Day in Paradise", or "Lucky Man" from The Verve. You see how it is with the titles, BTW? The Spirit does enigmatic or even eccentric (He works with me, after all!!!), but He does not do weird, making sure there is a handle for us to see what we are letting ourselves in for. But, of course, as we reach up with what genius we have, he reaches down and in to help us take that genius into transcendence. We may realise what is going on (I did), but we may not. Either way, the beauty and meaning and truth and love and healing and mercy is added in, our universe made more whole and less evil; and through KZbin made accessible and even commentable. The dark forces have a strong hand on the Internet, but so does the ever-innovative Holy Spirit!

[@jamesvanian5524]

This is the best version of this incredible piece of music on KZbin IMHO. Magnificent perfection as it was meant to be played. No blurring of notes by playing to fast. Total clarity of sound. Thank you so much. James.

[@IanG2710IanG]

I heard Benjamin Morris play this toccata at the York Minster Easter Evensong this year and it was magnificent. This recording is just the same. Beautifully played, beautiful tempo, beautiful acoustic. This is now my favourite recording, just surpassing the Scott Brothers Cavaille-Coll Manchester performance. Bravo Benjamin.

[@johnshilling3928]

A wonderful performance using a beautiful instrument! I played this for the New York State School Music Association festival competition in 1967 and won. I was 15 then and I played it somewhat faster but have since learned what Widor's intentions were. Bravo.

[@Railfan6675]

I love the York Minster. I have a picture of me standing beside those big 32’ pipes! Thank you for this video. Cheers from Canada.

[@ChrisGBusby]

My late parents had this at their wedding in the 1940s and ended up spending a minor fortune on a "stereogram" that was able to play it pretty well on a 45rpm record. I still have that disc and play it occasionally on my Linn Sondek LP12. It still sounds FAR better than any digital version :)

[@reglementme6321]

It must be difficult to master the acoustics of the Minster, but it’s a joy to hear so much detail. Masterly played on an instrument placed all over.

[@ianlister6554]

Simply superb. What an instrument and what an organist. Finding these gems makes my day. Thank you.

[@tcharles2466]

Kudos to Benjamin Morris (for a magnificent prformance!) - and to Harrison & Harrison for their (in my opinion) 'unsurpassed' excellence in pipe organ restoration!

[@richardvoran5514]

Beautifully played, and at the perfect tempo for the Minster acoustic!

[@reglementme6321]

It’s, in my opinion the tempo for eternity and everywhere

[@BigA1]

So many times I've heard this piece played at a speed that neither the instrument or acoustics could sustain; this was played at an optimum speed. Well done.

[@tcrosslinho5565]

Yes perfect. Listen that guy at Christ Cathedral is California play it. It's terrible, way to fast.

[@chrisraffen5980]

This masterpiece is performed in a magnificent way.THankyou.I hear him regularly at services each Sunday

[@michalhimko3372]

In one sentence, Widor's toccata played perfectly. Cheers and thanks for sharing on KZbin.

[@shin-i-chikozima]

The sound of organ Ìs th cry of the soul , and a profound sigh of God

[@randolphfriend8260]

🥲 💙 This piece was the postlude at my cousin's funeral. The organist loved him. The organ was a huge tracker. It was Glorious! Thank you. 🎉 🥲

[@Kukulkan77]

It is simply an impressive instrument, wonderfully housed in one of the grandest of English cathedrals. Great interpretation of Benjamin Morris.

[@Kyleinasailing]

At Sedbergh school during the 70's this was always played when leaving Sunday chapel before going home at the end of term. Shivers down the spine because we were going home and great music of course.

[@grahamtwist]

SUPERB - and the perfect tempo! The Minster Organ has never sounded better: bravo, Benjamin!

[@stevendurrant1724]

My father, loved YM so much and was an organist. I know he put money to this project and am really proud.

[@sarahbass6116]

as a youngster i have loved this piece. I equated it as carnival music to the organists immense amusement. In fact I didn’t know it’s roots until I planned the music to be played at my wedding. All I knew was it was a toccata with no idea of the composer. Luckily the organist remembered my previous description of carnie music.

[@petermerrick7645]

That is the best.The most beautiful rendition of the Vidor I have heard for many years. Some time ago I just happened to be in London at the time when the newly refurbished organ at the Albert Hall and the organist was playing all my favourites. But the best was the Vidor. Prior to playing he warned us that the powers that be had given him carteblance and so we had a recital with all stops pulled out. The sound was not only heard but resonated throughout the hall and was felt as the seats vibrated, today I had my own recital with my earbuds.!!!!

[@malacca1951]

A fine performance on a wonderfully 'new' organ in the Minster. I've played 'The Widor' many times but never from memory! (It's impossible to turn pages when playing it so it's necessary to have a 'turner' or memorise it!) I turned the pages for Dr Jackson a few times, had a couple of lessons from him AND was at college with his son, William. What an incredible musician he was.

[@johnshilling3928]

I play without music but I practice with the music in front of me.

[@robertthomson9808]

Beautifully played thanks to Mr Morris. This was played at my wedding to my wonderful wife almost 25 years ago. Great stirring music and thanks to Widor for his work.

[@georgepitchley3946]

We had this piece played at our wedding over 50 years ago, the organist, who was also the Best Man, had to learn it, I have a number of recording of it, and I also often check it out on KZbin, and I can honestly say this is the best performance of it I have ever heard, matched with the excellent introduction to the organ and the really great camera and drone views, excellent presentation, well done.

[@Stoertebekerxyz]

Die Menschen vor 100 Jahren müssen sehr beeindruckt gewesen sein soetwas zu hören. Ich war vor Jahrzehnten in einem katholischen Gottestdienst und der Organist spielte dieses Stück zum Ausgang. Ich war sehr beeindruckt. In meiner evangelischen Gemeinde bekam ich sowas nie zu hören.

[@aberlioness]

England has been Protestant since 1547; we have been playing grand music like this all the time since. Mind you the service of Church of England isn't that far off the Roman Catholic one, the difference being less smells and bells - it's not so austere as other forms of Protestantism.

[@RobertPaterson]

Quite the finest version I have heard - what a tempo and what skill in the set up for the foot notes that are so important in this remarkable piece

[@SheardTV1]

Heard this played at York Minster just before the refurb at the end of a Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols. It was fabulous being able to walk up to the console and see the organist close up. This year for Christmas 🎅🏼 I’m hoping for J.S.Bach Sinfonia Cantata BWV 29, where I’ll go listen next to the bass pipes! 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@martinsketchley3509]

I was singing for that service and it was a very special moment

[@SheardTV1]

Thank you! You played it! And it was wonderful to hear it played so well on the Great Organ of York Minster!

[@gillhollister7413]

We came out to this at our wedding at St. Woolos Cathedral, Newport. 2nd September 1972. We still enjoy it. We deliberately walked down the aisle slowly to hear it. We cam out to a Bellringers Guard of Honour.

[@mackie32x4]

Finally!! A video with resolution worthy of the instrument. Finally a video with proper sound for this organ. Finally.. Keep putting them out. We are listening!!!!

[@carolechassagnard8272]

Magnificent! One tires of "Anything you can play, I can play faster". This is a really stirring rendering.

[@gretchenseastead]

Yes! Awesome!!! Thank you for recording and posting!!!!

[@johnhtaylor4366]

We walked out as a married couple to this piece on 17 April 1971 , still together. Liz & John Taylor

[@robertthomson9808]

Same here. 24 March 2000. Great music. We had it played slightly faster for our exit from church.

[@robertramsay5963]

When at a live recital I always pray the organist will NOT end with this piece. That's because it's usually played far too fast to catch all the nuances. To my ear, this is the way it should be played. (Just before watching this i listened to Widor playing it and he, too, takes it at a decent pace. Bravo!

[@marciamcguire6501]

BRAVO Benjamin ! and..... ala Widor Tempo, and from memory !!!!!!!!! Just Brilliant ! The Best THRILL RIDE - can only imagine the rush of excitement to execute this piece and on this Fabulous instrument ! Again , Bravo - magnificently played ! THANK YOU All the best, marcia

[@PointyTailofSatan]

At the time Widor wrote this, he had Dupre as a disciple, and Dupre's fame and composing skill were already becoming legendary. It's said that Widor composed this to show Dupre and the music world that he "still had it". 😛

[@valethewolf49]

First I fell in love with classical music, now the Organ. They really are amazing instruments....I really don't have words to properly describe the beauty of It❤🔥

[@sheilaholmes-fd8bg]

What a fitting piece of music to match our majestic york minster. Beautiful.

[@nmatthew7469]

Stolen Catholic Church.

[@josephtaylor6285]

What a triumphant piece of music and what masterful playing. I first heard this years ago at St Thomas church on Fifth Ave in New York on Easter Sunday at the end of the service and it’s been a favorite ever since. Beautiful beautiful beautiful!

[@neilbarnett3046]

A friend of mine had to play this for a wedding. Being short of time, she practised only the first couple of minutes, knowing that the bridal party would be out of church by then. But it was raining, so everyone came back in!

[@cmtwei9605]

I actually played this for a wedding long ago. Interesting to see Mr Morris stays on the Great throughout except for the left hand in the closing section, if I remember correctly Widor instructs change of manuals in the middle. The notes aren't difficult as they conform to the hand shape and keep repeating. Mr Morris gives a most wonderful performance on a splendid grand instrument. I think the Cavillė-Coll organs generally have a deeper sound. I had the good fortune many years ago to hear Dr Francis Jackson when he was invited to my school, and Sir George Thalben-Ball playing this Toccata in Exeter.

[@lindabutterworth2477]

Played at both my weddings. Stunning piece! Amazing and talented organist. Goosebumps. Would love to hear it played live.

[@davidcraggs3770]

You never cease to impress me with your playing. This is my favourite Bach Prelude and Fugue and that was a spotlessly accurate performance, be it a shade too fast. I couldn’t play it in my socks. Bless you Ben.

[@srwicker]

An oft played, frequently butchered war horse played MAGNIFICENTLY and musically on this great instrument by an EXCELLENT organist.

[@marykarensolomon7103]

They are gorgeous, the Cathedral and the organ, and Ben's rendition Is perfect!

[@musicmant2]

Perfectly played at the correct tempo - brilliant! Had this played at our wedding in 1980 as we walked out of the church

[@richardaillas162]

The best I have listened to on youtube. Magnificent. Not that many 'church' organists in the sixties could play this wonderful composition.

[@donallan6396]

Played exactly as it should be played.Magnificintly.

[@lysliepope3967]

Hats off to an organist who plays from memory. I love the tempo and the registration because I was able to all the different voices that make up this beautiful music.

[@grahaml6668]

Thank goodness at last. When I last visited in 2016 the Minster was a mess, with rubble, construction, and a determined effort to suppress its glorious history and cater to modernity. If this is the way the Minster looks and sounds now -- well, Fantastic. And a superb piece of work from Harrison's!