With 28 pieces for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany, this handsomely produced volume is excellent value for money. . . Many of [the original pieces and arrangements] are by little-known organists (indeed there has been considerable detective work and searching of archives). Included are some real discoveries . . . The third category - pieces published for the first time - is the highlight of the volume . . . These five pieces make the volume well worth puchasing by organists who usually use pedals as well. * Sunday by Sunday (RSCM), December 2017 *
In Christmas Organ Music for manuals, editor Robert Gower has unearthed some real rarities - Leon Roques or Jan Zwart, anyone? - which stand alongside far more familiar fare and a sprinkling of commissions . . . The editor has done an especially canny job of arranging and simplifying some particularly demanding seasonal Bach and Handel . . . The collection understands its brief perfectly, fulfils it admirably, and is functional in the best possible way. * Stephen Farr, Choir & Organ, Jan/Feb 2018 *
For many of you who are familiar with The Oxford Book of Christmas Organ Music, this new collection of organ music . . . is long overdue. Gower has finally given us a very attractive companion, with organ music beautifully composed and arranged for manuals only, with organists invited to explore judicious use of the pedal . . . as is appropriate . . . This collection . . . will bring much joy to players and listeners alike . . . Many of the works will work effectively on a continuo or chamber organ, or even a piano if the need arose . . . What is most appealing about this collection is the variety of works on offer . . . There is much to be explored here by those wishing to build on their existing collection of Christmas repertoire. * Christopher J. Luke, New Zealand Organ New, March 2018 *
