Jedburgh Abbey is the first of three studies for organ inspired by a visit to the Scottish Borders in August 2003. Each movement reflects the character of one of the great ruined Scottish Abbeys as well as focusing on a particular aspect of organ technique. They are designed for the developing player, each presenting a particular but surmountable challenge of technique. The soaring walls of Jedburgh create a majestic effect when entering the town. In the music this is reflected both in marcato chords and also the two-part counterpoint, which demands good co-ordination between manuals and pedal as well as substitute fingerings.
Organist Tom Bell has performed the piece widely and recorded it on the organ of Blackburn Cathedral. The recording is on the CD
Northern Lights, on the London Independent Records label: LIR Classics LIR025.
- ISMN: 9790570683840 (M570683840)