Though short in length, this recording of the iconic opening movement ('Sunrise') of Richard Strauss' magnificent composition required more time and patience than any other Tim has recorded at the Cathedral to date. The State Trumpet, some 500 feet away from the organist, poses several problems when trying to synchronize other instruments while recording. Because of the sheer size/length of the Cathedral, there is a full second of delay from the time the State Trumpet sounds until that sound actually reaches the organist's ears (no problem for Tim, who has been playing on this incomparable instrument for years, and is accustomed to synching the State Trumpet to other parts of the organ). What was challenging was synching the timpani into the mix live; sounds simple as its only one instrument, but it actually took some doing. The recording mics had to be placed in precisely the right positions (which took a bit of experimentation). The opening phrases were the most challenging because the last beat of the drum had to coincide with the downbeat of the State Trumpet. The Timpani was far away enough from the organ loft (about half-way down the Nave) as to create a slightly different delay than that of the State Trumpet. By using the remote camera in the organ loft, however, Tim was able to calculate the timing of the last stroke of the mallet by observing the arm movements, rather than listening for the (delayed) sound. It took a few tries, but once they got the hang of it they were off and running. It was a memorable experience to have been present at this recording session, and I really enjoyed shooting/editing the video. I hope that you enjoy the music!
The State Trumpet heard here is one of the most powerful organ stops in the world operating under 50" of wind pressure. By the end of this arrangement, Tim brings the full force of this mighty Aeolian-Skinner into play, including the Tuba, full Bombarde Division, and 32' Contre Bombarde. (This recording was made prior to the devastating fire of 2001)
Tim served at Saint John the Divine as Associate Organist from 1997-2002 and as Cathedral Organist from 2002-2009.
Please visit Tim's website at: www.timbrumfiel...
Tim is managed by Brumfield & Associates: www.brumfieldas...
7 сен 2024
