First recording of Richards Fowkes organ of St George’s Hanover Square

Parthenia Nova

Music by Sweelinck, Weckmann, Bohm, Philips, plus first recordings of works by David Sanger, Joel Martinson and Philip Moore.

Simon Thomas Jacobs, first prize winner at the St Albans International Organ Festival, makes his first CD with a powerful programme of music from the 16th to the 21st centuries, including three contemporary works recorded for the first time. This is also the first recording of the wonderful Richards, Fowkes & Co. organ, which is also the first American organ built in London. A lot of firsts – hence the title Parthenia Nova, which refers to the first keyboard music published in England.

Simon Thomas Jacobs writes about his CD: “It was a great honour to have the opportunity to record my debut CD on the first American-built pipe organ in London and, in doing so, also acknowledge both my native country and the country I have subsequently made my home. In an age where almost everything has been recorded, Parthenia Nova attempts to display the vibrancy and versatility of Richards, Fowkes & Co. Opus 18 with lesser-known works from the 16th to 21st centuries—including three pieces that are appearing on commercial CD for the first time. This is repertoire about which I am deeply passionate and that I hope, combined with this exciting new instrument, will bring the listener as much joy as it continues to bring me.”

• 1 CD