As President and Tonal Director of Aeolian-Skinner, G. Donald Harrison affixed his signature to the consoles of his proudest projects, of which Op. 1174 (1951) in Longview, Texas, is one. The present recording of an all-British program recognizes the transplanted Englishman Harrison's work. Organist Joby Bell brings to his performances a contagious affability and a keen sensitivity toward increasing an audience’s appreciation for organ music. His recital programming demonstrates a varied and interesting repertoire, always enhanced by illuminating program notes designed to embrace all audiences. His acclaimed blog at deals with a comprehensive range of organ-related topics including teaching philosophies, recital preparation, church music, and professional concerns. In 2000 he garnered Second Prize and the Audience Prize in the American Guild of Organists National Young Artists Competition in Organ Performance. Since 2004, he has served on the faculty of the Hayes School of Music, Appalachian State University, where he teaches organ and church music studies. His teaching specializes in practice techniques, memorization, service playing, choral accompanying, and maintaining grace under pressure – lessons always best taught by example.
