Saint Luke Catholic Church is well known throughout the East Coast as an ideal recording space for music ensembles, choruses and orchestras. The true acoustics, quiet setting inside and out, and the rich resources of organ, piano and harpsichord instruments, make this a popular recording space. Producers from Minneapolis, Chicago and Boston make annual trips to oversee recordings at Saint Luke. Over 50 CDs have been recorded in the last 20 years. Most are available from Amazon.com. Links are included in the CD descriptions. Many of the CDs are also sold at Music in McLean Concerts at Saint Luke. They may be also be obtained by contacting Paul Skevington at 703.356.0670 or skevington@saintlukemclean.org.
Joseph Rheinberger Organ Concertos
Organ Concerto No. 1 in F major
Organ Concerto No. 2 in G minor
The Amadeus Orchestra
Timothy Rowe, Music Director
Paul Skevington, Organ
The Washington Post reviewed the live performance of the first recording on this CD, the Rheinberger Organ Concerto No. 1 . In describing the concerto, the critic wrote:
"…a choir of three horns sang out the concerto's linking motif and filled every corner of the church with sumptuous harmony. One would have to be atheistic indeed not to feel at that moment that music is a form of worship ."
Performed at Saint Luke Catholic Church on April 18, 1999, the audience listened in “ rapt silence ” as the Amadeus Orchestra and Paul Skevington performed with “ exemplary precision and beauty of tone .”
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Organ Concerto No. 1 in F major
Organ Concerto No. 2 in G minor
The Amadeus Orchestra
Timothy Rowe, Music Director
Paul Skevington, Organ
The Washington Post reviewed the live performance of the first recording on this CD, the Rheinberger Organ Concerto No. 1 . In describing the concerto, the critic wrote:
"…a choir of three horns sang out the concerto's linking motif and filled every corner of the church with sumptuous harmony. One would have to be atheistic indeed not to feel at that moment that music is a form of worship ."
Performed at Saint Luke Catholic Church on April 18, 1999, the audience listened in “ rapt silence ” as the Amadeus Orchestra and Paul Skevington performed with “ exemplary precision and beauty of tone .”
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Cello Suites by J. S. Bach Volume 1: Suites No. 1, 3, 4
Tobias Werner, cello When Johann Sebastian Bach wrote his six suites for unaccompanied cello in 1720, he perfected the art of composition for a solo instrument. Bach was a master of polyphonic composition, the Baroque gold standard of writing, which gives the impression that a single instrument is playing more than one voice at a time. In his cello suites, Bach leads the listener through a tremendously complex maze where everything is comfortably the same, yet startlingly different at each turn. Then suddenly, but inevitably, he pulls the entire piece together in a final cadence of clear, fully satisfying resolution.
Bach’s suites are performed on this recording with brilliant sensitivity by Tobias Werner, Cellist-in-Residence at the Garth Newel Music Center in Virginia, with whom he performs more that 80 concerts a year in the US, New Zealand, France, Spain, Germany, Ireland, and Italy. Previously, as a founding member of the Florestan Piano Trio, he concertized at festivals and concert series throughout Europe. His solo performances include concerts with orchestras in the US, France, Germany and Romania. Mr. Werner can be heard on several CD recordings, including this most recent, brilliant interpretation of Cello Suites by J. S. Bach.
Tobias Werner, cello When Johann Sebastian Bach wrote his six suites for unaccompanied cello in 1720, he perfected the art of composition for a solo instrument. Bach was a master of polyphonic composition, the Baroque gold standard of writing, which gives the impression that a single instrument is playing more than one voice at a time. In his cello suites, Bach leads the listener through a tremendously complex maze where everything is comfortably the same, yet startlingly different at each turn. Then suddenly, but inevitably, he pulls the entire piece together in a final cadence of clear, fully satisfying resolution.
Bach’s suites are performed on this recording with brilliant sensitivity by Tobias Werner, Cellist-in-Residence at the Garth Newel Music Center in Virginia, with whom he performs more that 80 concerts a year in the US, New Zealand, France, Spain, Germany, Ireland, and Italy. Previously, as a founding member of the Florestan Piano Trio, he concertized at festivals and concert series throughout Europe. His solo performances include concerts with orchestras in the US, France, Germany and Romania. Mr. Werner can be heard on several CD recordings, including this most recent, brilliant interpretation of Cello Suites by J. S. Bach.
David Diamond and The Potomac String Quartet
Volumes 1-4 Volume 1- String Quartets 3, 8
Volume 2- String Quartets 2, 9, 10
Volume 3- Srtring Quartets 1,5, 6
Volume 4- String Quartets 4, 7, 11
The Potomac String Quartet
In October, 2000, the Potomac String Quartet embarked on a project of recording all eleven string quartets written between 1936 and 1968 by the eminent American composer, David Diamond. During an interview, the composer explained, “I have always admired the performers of a string quartet because they had to be perfect musicians, technically and interpretively. They were, for me, the peak, even more so than a conductor.” He described his quartets as being made of four, independent contrapuntal lines with both thematic and motivic relationships. The musicians performing on this CD clearly live up to Diamond's expectations of perfection. Members of The Potomac String Quartet have performed with the National Symphony Orchestra and have soloed with orchestras throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. The quartet has also served as the resident string quartet at the chamber music concerts at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.
Click here to purchase Vol. 4 on Allmusic.com
Volumes 1-4 Volume 1- String Quartets 3, 8
Volume 2- String Quartets 2, 9, 10
Volume 3- Srtring Quartets 1,5, 6
Volume 4- String Quartets 4, 7, 11
The Potomac String Quartet
In October, 2000, the Potomac String Quartet embarked on a project of recording all eleven string quartets written between 1936 and 1968 by the eminent American composer, David Diamond. During an interview, the composer explained, “I have always admired the performers of a string quartet because they had to be perfect musicians, technically and interpretively. They were, for me, the peak, even more so than a conductor.” He described his quartets as being made of four, independent contrapuntal lines with both thematic and motivic relationships. The musicians performing on this CD clearly live up to Diamond's expectations of perfection. Members of The Potomac String Quartet have performed with the National Symphony Orchestra and have soloed with orchestras throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. The quartet has also served as the resident string quartet at the chamber music concerts at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.
Click here to purchase Vol. 4 on Allmusic.com
The Double Bass Robert Oppelt & Friends
Principal Bass of The National Symphony Orchestra, Robbert Oppelt is accompanied by his wife Nicolette Driehuys on flute and by NSO members on strings and harp in a number of different ensembles. An unusual but surprisingly refreshing program of chamber music, Robert Oppelt’s first CD “makes for an impressive showcase for his talents.” Fanfare magazine
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Principal Bass of The National Symphony Orchestra, Robbert Oppelt is accompanied by his wife Nicolette Driehuys on flute and by NSO members on strings and harp in a number of different ensembles. An unusual but surprisingly refreshing program of chamber music, Robert Oppelt’s first CD “makes for an impressive showcase for his talents.” Fanfare magazine
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Six Sonatas for Two Violins by Telemann Duo Concertone -
Zino and Natasha Bogachek
Zino and Natasha Bogachek, a husband and wife violin duo, were born in the former Soviet Union where they attended special music schools for gifted children. At an early age they began concert careers, performing recitals and appearing as soloists with various orchestras in the U.S.S.R., Europe, and the United States. Currently, Zino is a member of the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and Natasha is a member of the National Symphony Orchestra. Their joyful interpretation of Telemann’s Six Sonatas for Two Violins resonates with beauty and vitality. This is music making that is graceful yet profound, playful yet deliberate, and is a “must have” for music lovers everywhere.
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Zino and Natasha Bogachek
Zino and Natasha Bogachek, a husband and wife violin duo, were born in the former Soviet Union where they attended special music schools for gifted children. At an early age they began concert careers, performing recitals and appearing as soloists with various orchestras in the U.S.S.R., Europe, and the United States. Currently, Zino is a member of the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and Natasha is a member of the National Symphony Orchestra. Their joyful interpretation of Telemann’s Six Sonatas for Two Violins resonates with beauty and vitality. This is music making that is graceful yet profound, playful yet deliberate, and is a “must have” for music lovers everywhere.
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Ernst Toch: Steven Honigberg, Cello
Steven Honigberg has emerged as one of the outstanding cellists of his generation. Known for his explorations of important new works, he has an extensive CD recording list. A member of the National Symphony Orchestra, he tours extensively throughout the U.S. The music of Ernst Toch is very innovative, yet prized for the mastery of its craftsmanship and the depth of its inspiration.
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Steven Honigberg has emerged as one of the outstanding cellists of his generation. Known for his explorations of important new works, he has an extensive CD recording list. A member of the National Symphony Orchestra, he tours extensively throughout the U.S. The music of Ernst Toch is very innovative, yet prized for the mastery of its craftsmanship and the depth of its inspiration.
Click here to purchase on Allmusic.com
Christmas with the Master Chorale of Washington
Donald McCullough, Music Director
Brass, Percussion and Organ
Beautifully performed choral works of the Christmas season, ranging from the dramatic and joyful Magnificat by Jonathan Wilcocks to the haunting simplicity of What Child Is This?
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Donald McCullough, Music Director
Brass, Percussion and Organ
Beautifully performed choral works of the Christmas season, ranging from the dramatic and joyful Magnificat by Jonathan Wilcocks to the haunting simplicity of What Child Is This?
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Glorious Splendor: Christmas with The Washington Chorus
Christmas with The Washington Chorus
Robert Shafer, Music Director
Paul Skevington, Organ
National Capital Brass and Percussion
Laura Lewis, Soprano
Relive the magic of the Christmas, 2002 Kennedy Center performance of the Grammy award winning Washington Chorus. Hear this magnificent 200-voice choir perform the premiere of three world-class compositions by the American composers Leo Nestor, Robert Shafer (both former music directors at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception) and Nicholas White. Enjoy a festive assortment of Yuletide carols accompanied by brass from the National Symphonic Orchestra and organ by Saint Luke’s own Paul Skevington, who also performs playful Christmas solos. This is one of those special CDs you’ll treasure for years to come.
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Christmas with The Washington Chorus
Robert Shafer, Music Director
Paul Skevington, Organ
National Capital Brass and Percussion
Laura Lewis, Soprano
Relive the magic of the Christmas, 2002 Kennedy Center performance of the Grammy award winning Washington Chorus. Hear this magnificent 200-voice choir perform the premiere of three world-class compositions by the American composers Leo Nestor, Robert Shafer (both former music directors at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception) and Nicholas White. Enjoy a festive assortment of Yuletide carols accompanied by brass from the National Symphonic Orchestra and organ by Saint Luke’s own Paul Skevington, who also performs playful Christmas solos. This is one of those special CDs you’ll treasure for years to come.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Sing We Noel: Christmas with the Washington Men's Camerata
Christmas with The Washington Men's Camerata
Frank Albinder, Music Director
Eric Plutz, Organ
Michael Patterson, Piano
Washington Symphonic Brass
Enjoy the strong and sturdy sound of an all-male choir directed by Frank Albinder, former conductor of "Chanticleer". This CD includes many popular carols as well as the famous Christmas Cantata by Daniel Pinkham. Parishioners of Saint Luke Catholic Church will recognize the full brass sound of Phil Snedecor and the Washington Symphonic Brass, who regularly play at Saint Luke for Christmas, Easter and other festivals.
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Christmas with The Washington Men's Camerata
Frank Albinder, Music Director
Eric Plutz, Organ
Michael Patterson, Piano
Washington Symphonic Brass
Enjoy the strong and sturdy sound of an all-male choir directed by Frank Albinder, former conductor of "Chanticleer". This CD includes many popular carols as well as the famous Christmas Cantata by Daniel Pinkham. Parishioners of Saint Luke Catholic Church will recognize the full brass sound of Phil Snedecor and the Washington Symphonic Brass, who regularly play at Saint Luke for Christmas, Easter and other festivals.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
There Shall a Star: Choral Jewels for Christmas
The Choral Arts Society of Washington
Norman Scribner, Music Director
Janice Chandler, Soprano
James Shaffran, Baritone
J. Reilly Lewis, Organ
Chamber Orchestra
This is a glorious collection of traditional Christmas music performed by the remarkable Choral Arts Society. Orchestral accompaniments are included in many of the selections. This CD includes carols, spirituals, traditional choral works and five lovely Bach organ solos featuring the Saint Luke Steiner-Reck organ as played by J. Reilly Lewis.
Click here to purchase from Choral Arts Society
The Choral Arts Society of Washington
Norman Scribner, Music Director
Janice Chandler, Soprano
James Shaffran, Baritone
J. Reilly Lewis, Organ
Chamber Orchestra
This is a glorious collection of traditional Christmas music performed by the remarkable Choral Arts Society. Orchestral accompaniments are included in many of the selections. This CD includes carols, spirituals, traditional choral works and five lovely Bach organ solos featuring the Saint Luke Steiner-Reck organ as played by J. Reilly Lewis.
Click here to purchase from Choral Arts Society
Christ Be Our Seed: The Choral Tradition of Carl F. Schalk
American Repertory Singers
Leo Nestor, Artistic Director and Conductor
Washington Symphonic Brass
A beautiful and inspiring collection of religious choral works arranged by the inimitable Carl F. Schalk, a towering figure in church music. The American Repertory Singers (a professional vocal ensemble resident in Washington, D.C.) is one of America's premier chamber ensembles.
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American Repertory Singers
Leo Nestor, Artistic Director and Conductor
Washington Symphonic Brass
A beautiful and inspiring collection of religious choral works arranged by the inimitable Carl F. Schalk, a towering figure in church music. The American Repertory Singers (a professional vocal ensemble resident in Washington, D.C.) is one of America's premier chamber ensembles.
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Holocaust Cantata: Songs from the Camps
Master Chorale of Washington
Chamber Singers
Donald McCullough, Music Director
The Holocaust Cantata was first performed at the Kennedy Center in March, 1998. A compelling collection of musical melodies written by inmates in concentration camps during the Holocaust, this powerful and beautiful work arranged by Daniel McCullough reflects the inmates' innermost responses to the most unthinkable acts. The Holocaust Cantata represents “the voice of humanity, crying out to be heard.”
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Master Chorale of Washington
Chamber Singers
Donald McCullough, Music Director
The Holocaust Cantata was first performed at the Kennedy Center in March, 1998. A compelling collection of musical melodies written by inmates in concentration camps during the Holocaust, this powerful and beautiful work arranged by Daniel McCullough reflects the inmates' innermost responses to the most unthinkable acts. The Holocaust Cantata represents “the voice of humanity, crying out to be heard.”
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
Love Songs for Chorus
Woodley Ensemble
Frank Albinder, Conductor
Love Songs for Chorus is for your romantic side. You'll hear Canti L'Amour by Bernard Rands, a collection of fifteen brief love madrigals for a cappella chorus using poems from James Joyce's Chamber Music ; Love Songs for Mixed Chorus A Cappella by Augusta Read Thomas, seven famous epigrams on the subject of love; Among the Voices by Rands incorporating four early poems by Samuel Beckett; and Six Madrigals by William Hawley, works linked to the 16 th Century and composed for Chanticleer. This CD was recorded at Saint Luke and was featured on the cover of the Fall 2003 issue of Fanfare magazine.
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Woodley Ensemble
Frank Albinder, Conductor
Love Songs for Chorus is for your romantic side. You'll hear Canti L'Amour by Bernard Rands, a collection of fifteen brief love madrigals for a cappella chorus using poems from James Joyce's Chamber Music ; Love Songs for Mixed Chorus A Cappella by Augusta Read Thomas, seven famous epigrams on the subject of love; Among the Voices by Rands incorporating four early poems by Samuel Beckett; and Six Madrigals by William Hawley, works linked to the 16 th Century and composed for Chanticleer. This CD was recorded at Saint Luke and was featured on the cover of the Fall 2003 issue of Fanfare magazine.
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Langley High School Madrigals
Karen McAndrews, Conductor
An eclectic mix of choral music, including traditional Christmas carols, sacred works and a particularly lovely rendition of Shenandoah, sung beautifully by the talented members of the Langley High School Madrigals. Available only from Langley High School.
Karen McAndrews, Conductor
An eclectic mix of choral music, including traditional Christmas carols, sacred works and a particularly lovely rendition of Shenandoah, sung beautifully by the talented members of the Langley High School Madrigals. Available only from Langley High School.
Celebrating Sacred Rhythms - The Choral Arts Society of Washington
The Choral Arts Society of Washington
Norman Scribner, Artistic Director
As world music, the chamber choral works featured in this recording are wonderful gems incorporating folk idioms. Colorful, joyful, vibrant, dramatic, and soulful are just a few of the many qualities found in this work. The poignant depiction of the nativity story in Navidad Nuestra is based on the rich musical tradition of Argentine dances and songs and creates a beautiful tableau that unfolds with indigenous flair. In Missa Luba, the call and response format with ostinato drum patterns suggest open air religious celebrations in central Africa. Finally, the embracing and highly personal approach to the Mass expressed in Misa Criolla promotes involvement on a spiritual level. Performed by chamber choruses from the Choral Arts Society of Washington, these performances focus on rhythmic color and dynamic harmonies while maintaining textual clarity. The invitation for participation is intoxicating and pervasive throughout all three works.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
The Choral Arts Society of Washington
Norman Scribner, Artistic Director
As world music, the chamber choral works featured in this recording are wonderful gems incorporating folk idioms. Colorful, joyful, vibrant, dramatic, and soulful are just a few of the many qualities found in this work. The poignant depiction of the nativity story in Navidad Nuestra is based on the rich musical tradition of Argentine dances and songs and creates a beautiful tableau that unfolds with indigenous flair. In Missa Luba, the call and response format with ostinato drum patterns suggest open air religious celebrations in central Africa. Finally, the embracing and highly personal approach to the Mass expressed in Misa Criolla promotes involvement on a spiritual level. Performed by chamber choruses from the Choral Arts Society of Washington, these performances focus on rhythmic color and dynamic harmonies while maintaining textual clarity. The invitation for participation is intoxicating and pervasive throughout all three works.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
49 Treasures From the African American Heritage Hymnal
James Abbington, Conductor
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
James Abbington, Conductor
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
46 More Hidden Treasures From the African American Heritage Hymnal
James Abbington, Conductor
Hear some of the richest treasures of African American hymnody performed by the talented choir of current and former students of Morgan State University. These stirringly inspirational and joyous CDs have been heartily welcomed in church communities everywhere. Selected from the African American Heritage Hymnal, the premier source of printed music for the African American church in the twenty-first century, these hymns are some of the less well known, or perhaps, forgotten treasures of congregational song. Anyone with a love of sacred music will find a wealth of listening pleasure in these CDs.
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James Abbington, Conductor
Hear some of the richest treasures of African American hymnody performed by the talented choir of current and former students of Morgan State University. These stirringly inspirational and joyous CDs have been heartily welcomed in church communities everywhere. Selected from the African American Heritage Hymnal, the premier source of printed music for the African American church in the twenty-first century, these hymns are some of the less well known, or perhaps, forgotten treasures of congregational song. Anyone with a love of sacred music will find a wealth of listening pleasure in these CDs.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
42 Treasured Favorites from the African American Heritage Hymnal
James Abbington, Conductor
After the success of 49 Hidden Treasures and 46 More Hidden Treasures, GIA has shifted its focus and have recorded 42 of the most beloved hymns of the church. With this recording GIA hopes to preserve the tried-and-true treasures of the African American religious experience. Favorites like “Guide My Feet,” “How Great Thou Art,” “It Is Well with My Soul,” and “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling” are just a few of the songs at the heart of this recording. These hymns play a deeply formative role in the shared faith and theology of the assembly. These 42 Treasured Favorites will inspire, edify, and uplift the lives and souls of every listener.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
James Abbington, Conductor
After the success of 49 Hidden Treasures and 46 More Hidden Treasures, GIA has shifted its focus and have recorded 42 of the most beloved hymns of the church. With this recording GIA hopes to preserve the tried-and-true treasures of the African American religious experience. Favorites like “Guide My Feet,” “How Great Thou Art,” “It Is Well with My Soul,” and “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling” are just a few of the songs at the heart of this recording. These hymns play a deeply formative role in the shared faith and theology of the assembly. These 42 Treasured Favorites will inspire, edify, and uplift the lives and souls of every listener.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Life and Liberty: American Patriotic Music
National Men's Chorus - Thomas Beveridge, Artistic Director
Paul Skevington, Organ
Washington Symphonic Brass
Join the National Men's Chorus for a patriotic tribute to “Life and Liberty” as they sing such cherished national hymns as America the Beautiful , This is My Country , The Navy Hymn , and Stars and Stripes Forever , as well as the robust tunes of the American Revolution and the Civil War. Recorded live in concert at Saint Luke with the Washington Symphonic Brass and organist, Paul Skevington, this CD is a treasure and a proud testimony to freedom.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
National Men's Chorus - Thomas Beveridge, Artistic Director
Paul Skevington, Organ
Washington Symphonic Brass
Join the National Men's Chorus for a patriotic tribute to “Life and Liberty” as they sing such cherished national hymns as America the Beautiful , This is My Country , The Navy Hymn , and Stars and Stripes Forever , as well as the robust tunes of the American Revolution and the Civil War. Recorded live in concert at Saint Luke with the Washington Symphonic Brass and organist, Paul Skevington, this CD is a treasure and a proud testimony to freedom.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Homage to Debussy/Homage to Liszt
Eric Himy, Piano
The New York Times describes pianist Eric Himy’s playing as “flawlessly poised, elegant and brilliant.” His compelling artistry has intrigued audiences on five continents. His techniques have been compared recently by the 2007 Revue Musicale de Suisse Romande to that of the legendary pianist Vladimir Horowitz and called him “a sensual gourmand of sound.” Le Provençal acclaims, "Himy is not only technically brilliant, but also doses out power and lyricism equally. What a temperament and what a captivating pianist!"
In Homage to Debussy, Himy takes us from a “dream-like, impressionist world far removed from our own” (Northbay Classical Reviews), to a stroll through the Puerta del Vino, an evening in Granada, and the carefree atmosphere of the sunny Mediterranean.
In Homage to Liszt, Himy’s musical prowess comes center stage invoking an image of the immense force of nature. Liszt’s music has been described as powerful, radical, enigmatic and spellbinding; capturing the very spirit, heart, soul, and genuineness of humanity.
Both CDs feature the debut of the exclusive Steingraeber piano with customizations that allow for an extraordinary combination of warmth, brilliance and clarity, as well as extending the instrument’s dynamic range, control and palette.
Click here to purchase on Tower.com
Eric Himy, Piano
The New York Times describes pianist Eric Himy’s playing as “flawlessly poised, elegant and brilliant.” His compelling artistry has intrigued audiences on five continents. His techniques have been compared recently by the 2007 Revue Musicale de Suisse Romande to that of the legendary pianist Vladimir Horowitz and called him “a sensual gourmand of sound.” Le Provençal acclaims, "Himy is not only technically brilliant, but also doses out power and lyricism equally. What a temperament and what a captivating pianist!"
In Homage to Debussy, Himy takes us from a “dream-like, impressionist world far removed from our own” (Northbay Classical Reviews), to a stroll through the Puerta del Vino, an evening in Granada, and the carefree atmosphere of the sunny Mediterranean.
In Homage to Liszt, Himy’s musical prowess comes center stage invoking an image of the immense force of nature. Liszt’s music has been described as powerful, radical, enigmatic and spellbinding; capturing the very spirit, heart, soul, and genuineness of humanity.
Both CDs feature the debut of the exclusive Steingraeber piano with customizations that allow for an extraordinary combination of warmth, brilliance and clarity, as well as extending the instrument’s dynamic range, control and palette.
Click here to purchase on Tower.com
Eleventh of September
James Johnson, Organ
Organist and composer James Johnson presents a captivating and varied program performed on the III-61 Steiner-Reck organ built in 1998 for Saint Luke Catholic Church in McLean, Virginia. Hear five of Johann Sebastian Bach’s organ masterpieces: Fantasia and Fuge in C; Toccata in F; Toccata, Adagio and Fugue in C, Have Mercy on Me, O Lord God, and Prelude and Fugue in b. Other selections include works by Dupre, Jongen, Guilmant, Knecht, Ives, Gigout and Vierne. Finally, Johnson presents a group of American melodies of the Revolutionary period that display a cornucopia of intimate combinations of principles, flutes, and reeds, showcasing the rich color, range, and depth of Saint Luke’s magnificent organ. The recording takes its name not from the date of the infamous events at New York’s World Trade Center, but from the title of one of the 18th century American compositions. Johnson received his Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Yale School of Music and has concertized extensively in the US, western Europe and Scandinavia, New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
Click here to purchase on Organ Historical Society Online
James Johnson, Organ
Organist and composer James Johnson presents a captivating and varied program performed on the III-61 Steiner-Reck organ built in 1998 for Saint Luke Catholic Church in McLean, Virginia. Hear five of Johann Sebastian Bach’s organ masterpieces: Fantasia and Fuge in C; Toccata in F; Toccata, Adagio and Fugue in C, Have Mercy on Me, O Lord God, and Prelude and Fugue in b. Other selections include works by Dupre, Jongen, Guilmant, Knecht, Ives, Gigout and Vierne. Finally, Johnson presents a group of American melodies of the Revolutionary period that display a cornucopia of intimate combinations of principles, flutes, and reeds, showcasing the rich color, range, and depth of Saint Luke’s magnificent organ. The recording takes its name not from the date of the infamous events at New York’s World Trade Center, but from the title of one of the 18th century American compositions. Johnson received his Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Yale School of Music and has concertized extensively in the US, western Europe and Scandinavia, New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
Click here to purchase on Organ Historical Society Online
Lyrical Trumpet
Phil Snedecor, Trumpet
Paul Skevington, Organ
The Lyrical Trumpet is acclaimed by the prestigious International Trumpet Guild as "among the very best" trumpet and organ CDs. Performed by Phil Snedecor and Paul Skevington, "both leading musicians in the Washington, D.C. area", The Lyrical Trumpet is delightful in its fresh and exhilarating repertoire—transcriptions of some of your favorite pieces, as well as several original compositions by Phil Snedecor. Hear Mozart's classic Queen of the Night powerfully reinterpreted for trumpet & organ; classics by Bernstein, Albinoni, Bach, Mahler, Barber and Faure; as well as brilliant original pieces such as Tribute , written by Phil just after September 11 th —an unforgettable piece of music with its "poignant majesty". The Lyrical Trumpet is “brilliant, full, deep and well balanced” in its almost voice-like quality.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Phil Snedecor, Trumpet
Paul Skevington, Organ
The Lyrical Trumpet is acclaimed by the prestigious International Trumpet Guild as "among the very best" trumpet and organ CDs. Performed by Phil Snedecor and Paul Skevington, "both leading musicians in the Washington, D.C. area", The Lyrical Trumpet is delightful in its fresh and exhilarating repertoire—transcriptions of some of your favorite pieces, as well as several original compositions by Phil Snedecor. Hear Mozart's classic Queen of the Night powerfully reinterpreted for trumpet & organ; classics by Bernstein, Albinoni, Bach, Mahler, Barber and Faure; as well as brilliant original pieces such as Tribute , written by Phil just after September 11 th —an unforgettable piece of music with its "poignant majesty". The Lyrical Trumpet is “brilliant, full, deep and well balanced” in its almost voice-like quality.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Lyrical Trumpet II
Phil Snedecor, Trumpet
Paul Skevington, Organ
The overwhelming success of The Lyrical Trumpet, released in 2002, led trumpet/organ duo Phil Snedecor and Paul Skevington to further explore the world of creative transcriptions, arrangements, and original works that are brought to life in their first release. Melodies people have known their entire lives, alongside new and fresh material, make this recording intriguing, compelling, creative, impressive, and of course, always Lyrical...
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Phil Snedecor, Trumpet
Paul Skevington, Organ
The overwhelming success of The Lyrical Trumpet, released in 2002, led trumpet/organ duo Phil Snedecor and Paul Skevington to further explore the world of creative transcriptions, arrangements, and original works that are brought to life in their first release. Melodies people have known their entire lives, alongside new and fresh material, make this recording intriguing, compelling, creative, impressive, and of course, always Lyrical...
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Ancient Airs for Brass and Organ
Washington Symphonic Brass - Milton Stevens, Conductor
Phil Snedecor, Arranger
William Neil, Organ
The Washington Symphonic Brass is an elite ensemble of 13 brass, 3 percussion and organ instruments. This highly acclaimed recording pulls together festive works both specifically for Christmas and other special occasions. The inspiring and joyful pieces are transcribed for brass - beautifully and creatively adapted from melodies of previous centuries. CD booklet contains interesting story of the recording of the project (part of which was during an ice-storm black out) and a beautiful picture of the Saint Luke Organ. Highly recommended!
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Washington Symphonic Brass - Milton Stevens, Conductor
Phil Snedecor, Arranger
William Neil, Organ
The Washington Symphonic Brass is an elite ensemble of 13 brass, 3 percussion and organ instruments. This highly acclaimed recording pulls together festive works both specifically for Christmas and other special occasions. The inspiring and joyful pieces are transcribed for brass - beautifully and creatively adapted from melodies of previous centuries. CD booklet contains interesting story of the recording of the project (part of which was during an ice-storm black out) and a beautiful picture of the Saint Luke Organ. Highly recommended!
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Voices of Brass
Washington Symphonic Brass
Milton Stevens, Conductor
Phil Snedecor, Arranger
Featuring Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, this fourth CD of WSB is now reissued on Warner Classics with the new title “Burana with Brass.” The American Record Guide review by Billy Kilpatrick says it all: “This spectacular account … of Carmina Burana is one of the all-time great brass ensemble recordings. The arrangement by trumpeter Phil Snedecor is first-rate, and the soloists (especially horn player Martin Hackleman) are outstanding. The group may be the best-sounding large brass ensemble I have heard.” Review
Washington Symphonic Brass
Milton Stevens, Conductor
Phil Snedecor, Arranger
Featuring Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, this fourth CD of WSB is now reissued on Warner Classics with the new title “Burana with Brass.” The American Record Guide review by Billy Kilpatrick says it all: “This spectacular account … of Carmina Burana is one of the all-time great brass ensemble recordings. The arrangement by trumpeter Phil Snedecor is first-rate, and the soloists (especially horn player Martin Hackleman) are outstanding. The group may be the best-sounding large brass ensemble I have heard.” Review
Sinfonia Festiva - Summit Records
Paul Skevington and The Washington Symphonic Brass
Experience a galactic symphony of sound that is forward looking, fresh, and full of the American spirit of exploration, discovery, and triumph. Sinfonia Festiva features music for solo organ and brass quintet and organ. This CD highlights three contemporary American composers in a decidedly American style: lyrical and tonal with melodic lines and rhythmic drive. Sinfonia Festiva is the premier recording of two major works for organ and brass by Daniel Gawthrop and by Craig Phillips. The music of David Ashley White is also featured in a three movement piece entitle “Triptych” for organ and brass. The CD was recorded at Saint Luke Church in McLean, is distributed nationwide by Summit Records, and can be found at Borders Books and Music, Tower Records, and Amazon.com. Review
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Paul Skevington and The Washington Symphonic Brass
Experience a galactic symphony of sound that is forward looking, fresh, and full of the American spirit of exploration, discovery, and triumph. Sinfonia Festiva features music for solo organ and brass quintet and organ. This CD highlights three contemporary American composers in a decidedly American style: lyrical and tonal with melodic lines and rhythmic drive. Sinfonia Festiva is the premier recording of two major works for organ and brass by Daniel Gawthrop and by Craig Phillips. The music of David Ashley White is also featured in a three movement piece entitle “Triptych” for organ and brass. The CD was recorded at Saint Luke Church in McLean, is distributed nationwide by Summit Records, and can be found at Borders Books and Music, Tower Records, and Amazon.com. Review
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Three Centuries of Harpsichord Music
Vera Kochanowsky, Harpsichord
Vera Kochanowsky is a graduate of the Oberlin and New England Conservatories and holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Stanford University, where she specialized in the performance practices of the 17th and 18th centuries. Dr. Kochanowsky was also the recipient of a Fulbright grant for harpsichord and early music studies in Europe. Her teachers have included John Gibbons, Arthur Haas, George Houle, Alan Curtis and Gordon Murray. Since moving to the Washington DC area in 1990, Dr. Kochanowsky has been active as a harpsichord soloist, chamber musician and singer, performing with such ensembles as the National Gallery Chamber Players, Bach Sinfonia, the Washington Kantorei, and La Menestrandise. Her solo performance at the Phillips Collection was praised by The Washington Post as “a first rate recital... poised, pristine, luxuriant.” She has also made solo appearances at the National Gallery of Art and the Montpelier Cultural Arts Center (winner of the 1995 and 2002 recitalist competition). She has concertized extensively with harpsichordist Thomas MacCracken, and together they have released two CDs: Pour 2 clavecins and A Decade of Duos. In 1997 Dr. Kochanowsky founded the early music vocal ensemble Carmina, and she has served as its director since then. In 2006 she founded a second vocal ensemble, Illuminare.
Click here to purchase on iTunes
Vera Kochanowsky, Harpsichord
Vera Kochanowsky is a graduate of the Oberlin and New England Conservatories and holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Stanford University, where she specialized in the performance practices of the 17th and 18th centuries. Dr. Kochanowsky was also the recipient of a Fulbright grant for harpsichord and early music studies in Europe. Her teachers have included John Gibbons, Arthur Haas, George Houle, Alan Curtis and Gordon Murray. Since moving to the Washington DC area in 1990, Dr. Kochanowsky has been active as a harpsichord soloist, chamber musician and singer, performing with such ensembles as the National Gallery Chamber Players, Bach Sinfonia, the Washington Kantorei, and La Menestrandise. Her solo performance at the Phillips Collection was praised by The Washington Post as “a first rate recital... poised, pristine, luxuriant.” She has also made solo appearances at the National Gallery of Art and the Montpelier Cultural Arts Center (winner of the 1995 and 2002 recitalist competition). She has concertized extensively with harpsichordist Thomas MacCracken, and together they have released two CDs: Pour 2 clavecins and A Decade of Duos. In 1997 Dr. Kochanowsky founded the early music vocal ensemble Carmina, and she has served as its director since then. In 2006 she founded a second vocal ensemble, Illuminare.
Click here to purchase on iTunes
Masters of the Baroque
Alexandra MacCracken, baroque violin and director
Daniel Rippe, baroque cello
Elena Tsai, harpsichord
Recorded October 19, November 2 and 9, 2010, at Saint Luke Catholic Church, McLean, Virginia. The program includes:
George Frideric Handel - Sonata in A major, Op. 1, No. 3 for violin and basso continuo
Johann Sebastian Bach - Prelude and Fugue in F major, BWV 880
J. S. Bach - Sonata No. 4 in C minor, BWV 1017 for violin and obbligato harpsichord
Jean-Philippe Rameau - Two movements in E minor (from Pièces de clavessin, 1724
Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber - Passacaglia in G minor for violin solo
Domenico Scarlatti - Two Sonatas in A major, K. 208–09 for harpsichord solo
Antonio Vivaldi - Sonata in C minor, RV 6 for violin and basso continuo
Click here to purchase on CDBaby.com
Alexandra MacCracken, baroque violin and director
Daniel Rippe, baroque cello
Elena Tsai, harpsichord
Recorded October 19, November 2 and 9, 2010, at Saint Luke Catholic Church, McLean, Virginia. The program includes:
George Frideric Handel - Sonata in A major, Op. 1, No. 3 for violin and basso continuo
Johann Sebastian Bach - Prelude and Fugue in F major, BWV 880
J. S. Bach - Sonata No. 4 in C minor, BWV 1017 for violin and obbligato harpsichord
Jean-Philippe Rameau - Two movements in E minor (from Pièces de clavessin, 1724
Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber - Passacaglia in G minor for violin solo
Domenico Scarlatti - Two Sonatas in A major, K. 208–09 for harpsichord solo
Antonio Vivaldi - Sonata in C minor, RV 6 for violin and basso continuo
Click here to purchase on CDBaby.com
