This recording was made on the Casavant Organ of the Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Montréal, an instrument that remained unaltered for eighty years until its restoration in 1995.
Composition History
Healey Willan's Introduction, Passacaglia and Fugue was inspired by a challenge from a friend who claimed only a 'German philosophical mind' could write a truly fine passacaglia.
Instruments
The Casavant organ in St Paul's Church, Toronto, which inspired Willan's masterwork, featured a large battery of solo Tubas, an organ harp, and a real celesta.
Composer Biography
Healey Willan, born in London, moved to Canada in 1913 to become the head of the theory department at the Toronto Conservatory of Music.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Healey Willan was known to be able to compose 'anywhere, any time, regardless of noise or disturbance'.
Performer Biography
Patrick Wedd, the organist on this recording, directed his first church choir at the age of twelve and has performed as a soloist with orchestras including the Vancouver Symphony.
Cultural Impact
Healey Willan was widely referred to as the 'Dean of Canadian composers' and received many awards, including one of the very first Orders of Canada in 1967.
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