The disintegration of Magdalen College Oxford’s previous instrument provided Informatur Choristarum Mark Williams with a rare opportunity to commission an organ with a truly distinctive voice. Hermann Eule Orgelbau has delivered magnificently, creating an instrument that marries German Romantic tonal principles with cutting-edge technology to serve the demands of daily Anglican workshop.

Built at Bautzen in 2021 and voiced at Oxford the following year, this 39-stop instrument maximises versatility through clever transmissions and extensions across four manuals. The dual enclosed division – with shutters facing both chapel and antechapel – function as either one large division or two distinct characters: the Récit offers robust French-style sounds, while the Swell provides gentler German voicing, including a free reed stop unique to Britain.

This is a thoughtfully curated programme that immediately showcases the organ’s remarkable sound palette through a musician who understands colour, phrasing and dynamic responses. From Wagner’s ‘Pilgrims’ Chorus’ (Tannhaüser), to the exquisite choral passage ‘Wie schön leuchtet Der Morgenstern’ in Reinecke’s wonderful Organ Sonata, to Frederic Austin’s virtuosic writing, every selection offers compelling music rewards. Ethel Smyth’s Prelude and Fugue on O Traurigkiet, O Herzeleid is beautiful.

The engineering balance proves first-class throughout – the reeds are simply glorious, while the quieter passages demonstrate exquisite refinement. Alexander Pott’s programme notes provide excellent context for this varied repertoire.

This recording introduces us to an instrument with real personality: bold and authoritative when called upon, yet capable of the most tender moments that can make liturgical accompaniment truly moving. Having heard these magnificent sounds, I’m already planning my pilgrimage to experience this remarkable organ in person.