It's wonderful to live in a time when, courtesy of the Internet, we can hear and play Paul Fey's wonderful compositions just days (or even mere hours!) after their publication. This beautiful prelude is fresh off his laptop and is an absolute joy to play.
The tune on which it's based is one of the composer's favourite hymns. He's already written a stunningly beautiful Reflection on this hymn tune (which I've also recorded) and his affection is just as clear from this Prelude. The hymn tune dates back to the 15th century and was later harmonised by the great J S Bach. It appears in modern English hymn books set to the words "Dearest Jesu, we are here at thy call, thy presence owning."
I've used two of the quiet Great 8-foot stops (Diapason III and Violoncello) as the foundation throughout the piece, supplemented by solos on the Choir 8 and 2-foot flutes and, for the actual hymn tune, the gorgeous Willis Swell Trumpet (with the box closed a touch to tame it!).
If you like this piece (and I defy you not to!) then you might be interested in other pieces in my "Fey Fest" playlist.
Played by Paul Broadhurst on the vintage "Father" Willis pipe organ of Christ Church, Birkenhead, UK.
Recorded 17 June 2023
Thumbnail: A view of the Christ Church organ from through the church ceiling, with yours truly beavering away at the console
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