Michael Novenko plays the Grygar organ of the Holy Cross Deanery Church, Litomysl, Czech Republic.
Priory PRCD 789
72' 32"
www.prioryrecords.co.uk

Iwould describe this CD as a pleasant, lightweight selection of music by Bach, Eben, Klicka, Martinu, Mushel and Novenko himself. For me the most interesting tracks are Eben's Preludio festivo, Novenko's Improvisation on a theme by Martinu and Mushel's Aria and Toccata. Klicka's Legenda gives the listener the chance to hear the quieter romantic sounds of the 2000 4-manual Grygar organ, which includes many stops from the 1902 Kobrle instrument. I wouldn't necessarily regard it as a Great European organ, but its eclectic nature, combining romantic and classical elements, plus horizontal reeds is quite pleasing. It reminds me of English Walker organs of the 80s and 90s.

Novenko's performances are skilful and sympathetic and he provides informative booklet notes about Litomysl, the music and the organ. Priory's recording faithfully captures the warm acoustic of the Holy Cross Deanery Church. DA