This summer’s concert, co-sponsored by Worcester AGO, was extraordinary in many ways: the two organists were top-rank, world-class performers, and the 1864 Hook never sounded better (thanks to Stefan Maier’s caring and thorough maintenance).   In these times of economic downturns, the Hall has persevered to keep the wind system, trackers, and voicing/regulation in enviable condition.

In the August 3 concert, we first heard Jonathan Bezdegian beginning the concert demonstrating the gentler sounds of the organ -  Dupré (from Vesper Psalms Op 18) and then Bach (“Wedge” Prelude & Fugue 548).  The Hook had never experienced Bach so well performed:  Jonathan’s registrations were clear and appropriate, and his execution of the Wedge (a relentlessly demanding opus) was technically perfect and musically delightful.  His crisp rendering of the fantasia-like flourishes and intricate Baroque ornamentation would put an Olympian to shame—the amount of strength required to depress even one key, much less thousands of notes on fully coupled keyboards on a historic instrument at prestissimo speeds, was breathtaking yet artful.  The final famous pedal statement of the theme towered effortlessly through the stretto texture of accumulated themes to bring to a satisfying close this musical masterpiece.

Katelyn Emerson presented works by Duruflé (Prelude from Op 5 Suite), Langlais (Trio from Triptyque), and Widor (Allegro from Symphony 6).  The Hook was put to its test in the Widor, and demonstrated its continued reign as King of Instruments.  In her energetic and demanding performance, Katelyn proved mastery in utilizing all the resources of the Hook’s 65 ranks and four keyboards, not to mention her own agile footwork.  The Allegro is a test of technical strength  and stamina on any mechanical action instrument, and Katelyn rose to and surpassed the occasion of this superlative performance with musical precision and sumptuous towering chords.  She seamlessly executed intricate manual changes with the magnificence of a world-class full orchestra.   A standing ovation underscored the audience’s appreciation and admiration.