The Rebirth of Aeolian Opus 1458

Built in 1919 for the home of a Massachusetts manufacturer, Aeolian Opus 1458 has completed the long journey to a new home in England, stopping by a church in New Bedford, Mass. for a 20-year visit on the way. Now housed in the English home of collector Paul Morris, the organ plays again with 31 ranks on three manuals and pedal

This recording further distributes the roll recordings made for Aeolian by such luminaries as Archer Gibson, Chandler Goldthwaite, and Firmin Swinnen. Also heard are Edwin Lemare, Clarence Eddy, Pietro Yon, Alexander McCurdy, rolls crafted by the Aeolian Organ Guild and a “live” performance by Paul Morris, as well as a number of other Aeolian artists. It is an excellent means of acquaintance with famous organists of the past, as well as a treasure for students of performance practice. From Archer Gibson playing Fauré to Lemare playing his own In the Fairy Glen, these are valuable looks backward.