[This is a series where we share short tutorials on a range of different pieces introduced and played by our colleague Jonathan Kingston, on our Viscount Organs. ]
In this edition of the series, we bring you the stirring tune Jerusalem written by Parry for the words of William Blake. This is a warhorse of a piece often chosen for weddings and funerals alike. Apparently simple there are a couple of rhythmic traps as unlike most hymns Blakes words in the 2 verses do not maintain a common metre. Jonathan plays this on our Envoy 350-FV. We hope that you find this piece a worthwhile addition to your library and enjoy the tips that Jonathan provides for it’s performance.
If you would like to watch the video tutorial right now – here it is:
More About Jonathan Kingston’s Musical Background
Jonathan studied the organ with Professor Ian Tracey and Ian Wells of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world. He was appointed Organ Scholar, and subsequently Sub-Organist to Bradford Cathedral before securing positions as Assistant Director and Director of Music at two leading independent schools. He is currently Associate Director of Music at the Ordinariate Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, Piccadilly.
Jonathan’s Work With Viscount
I am pleased to have Jonathan working with us – he covers several areas from sales, demonstrations, voicing of instruments and performing. His playing features on the current promotional DVD material for Viscount, and he would be very pleased to hear from any churches or individuals requiring an engaging and lively recitalist. If you would like to connect with Jonathan directly, please feel free to follow him on Twitter (@jonkingston) or by email on jonkingston@hotmail.co.uk.
More About the Organ Being Played In This Tutorial
Jonathan plays this piece on our very own Regent 356. This is a large 56 speaking stop 3 manual instrument. It is based on the very successful physical modelling ‘Physis’ sound technology used in all Envoy and Regent instruments. This particular instrument has 56 stops in a real wood veneer cabinet and features upgraded TP60LR keyboards. It has a internal library of over 500 alternative voice samples allowing the user to create totally individual voice pallets from classic English through Baroque and Romantic. For more information have a look at its specifications here.
I have had a passion for church organs since the tender age of 12. I own and run Viscount Organs with a close attention to the detail that musicians appreciate; and a clear understanding of the benefits of digital technology and keeping to the traditional and emotional elements of organ playing.
