Description

This issue is a celebration of Ludwig van Beethoven’s 250th birthday. It is not well-known but Beethoven was an organist in his youth, a role he enjoyed even though he didn’t compose much for the instrument. Richard Brasier looks at Beethoven’s work as an organist and Thomas Heywood writes about transcribing his symphonies for organ. This could be deemed a labour of love, but Thomas is continuing an age-old tradition as once upon a time transcription was the only way that the masses could hear orchestral music.

Since the last issue, the fate of Mander Organs has changed considerably and David Butterworth fondly commemorates the old and heralds the new regime.

Finally, Donald MacKenzie returns to Blackpool with its impressive Wurlitzer history; the images are extremely evocative of a time gone by.