I enjoy your sense of humor regarding the 'lost glove' and your brother's adventure 'stupid fool' and your quiet laugh to yourself recalling the memory of your brother.
Ben, just really have started to enjoy these wonderful videos over the past few months and i just wanted to say thank you for allowing us to appreciate these beautiful instruments and scenes with you. There are so many people that truly appreciate what you do. Thanks!
I love these videos. My old priest and I would fantasize about visiting lovely village churches in England. He is dead now and I pretend that I am watching these videos with him.
What a great way to spend a very cold and snowy Sunday afternoon, 1 degree F, -17 degree C! Your introduction with the story of your brother is priceless! When you said, "Stupid fool" I laughed out loud. What a great deal of work, walking through the water and the field to bring us this great music. I've watched every episode, most several times and what's so special about your CZcams channel is that you make the video about the church, its setting and the organ . My dream would be to cross the Big Pond someday and hear you in person. Thanks Ben!
I beat you in the temperate department. We have had two weeks of between -18 in the day and -38 at night. Mine is the only car still operating! It this video of Ben trudging through the flooded lane has brightened my mood like it always does.
Thanks again Ben. I appreciate your camera angles. In summer months I’m a bit is a lone church cruiser myself and charmed by the clunk clink and squeak of church doors as they open. I sit and tune myself in to all the emotions that have reverberated into the stonework. I think of the hopes, fears, great joys and outrageous pain and sorrows that congregations have brought into these buildings. Your choice of music and playing enables it to be tolerable.
Oh, to be in England ….in January..!! Thank you, Ben for trekking through the flood to bring us to St Peter’s. And thank you for one of my favorite hymns It lifts my spirits today. as we are locked in a deep freeze-down here iin the NW of WA State. “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring . Holy Wisdom Love Most Bright. Drawn by Thee Our Souls Aspiring. Soar to Uncreated Light . Word of God Our Flesh that Fashioned. With the Fire of Life Impassioned. Striving Still to Truth Unknown. Soaring, Dying “Round Thy Throne! ..
Here in Washington state too. My daughter is an organist so I get organ videos occasionally. His is the only one I watch. He is a great player and a good soul.
Ben, thanks so much for persevering through the cold and other difficulties to bring us the amazing views and delightful sounds!! Love the organ music and the birdsong, too!! In this day and age both are healing!
Outstanding! The countryside, the church, the organ, the music and, of course, the playing. Thank you, Ben, for another beautiful treat. Wishing you a good and prosperous year. 🥰🤠
I just found your channel a few months ago, and I really love your videos! Every Sunday evening, I'm eager to see a new episode. Thank you so much for making these videos! I know it takes a lot of time and effort, but it's highly appreciated!! Saying hi from the Netherlands 🤗
Here's a bit of extra information about Britford and the Church. Just along the river is Longford Castle, so private and out of view that even some people round here don't know about it. Still in the ownership of the Earl of Radnor, there are quite a few tombs of the family in the Churchyard. And of course with such patrons, the church is well looked after. Just thought I'd point out, especially to US viewers, that many of the Churches Ben is visiting have or did have, large wealthy estates nearby. Hence the quality of the buildings and their size and decoration. Bit of trivia for you. You can catch a glimpse of the roofs and towers of Radnor Castle from nearby hills, and only in winter when the trees are bare. However the best view of this unusual hexagonal castle is at the end of the film "The Princess Diaries" (Anne Hathaway film). It's the one shown in the ariel shot at the end of the film.
@@lindseyochoa4818 Thanks very much. Yes, the theft of churches, destruction of monasteries, and the murder and persecution of Englands population for holding to the Catholic faith is certainly a national disgrace which England has ignored too long.
@@DD-bx8rbPersecution of Protestants under Mary I (1553-1558) The number of people executed for their faith during the persecutions is thought to be at least 287, including 56 women. Thirty others died in prison.
Thank you again for such wonderful work of presenting not only beautiful music, but so much more. I was never particularly a fan of organ music until I've heard you play in these churches bringing a modern reminder of ancient worshipers, and uniting us with those of old.
What a beautiful treat to watch these in this bleak midwinter! I’m surprised that there isn’t some effort to stabilize the temperature and humidity for these organs as extensive damage is possible otherwise. Thanks for another wonderful and calming adventure into a world few of us get to experience!
Once again, thank you! The Bach piece is a favorite and you certainly did him proud. I think that you are a genius in the way you have composed, presented and performed in these calming and informative videos. All the Best!!
Bach composed it as a cantata to be performed at Sunday morning service as he was the Music Director and had to compose cantatas every week for Sunday services.
Ben another sublime and beautiful video. Your observations and quips in line with your love of these churches and the music comes through. You make me proud to be a local but even if I wasn’t I’d love these videos. Ben is truly the antidote to modern life. Thank you 🙏
I'm currently thousands of miles away from being a local, but I am totally captivated by your commentary, personal reflections, and, of course, your playing. Please don't stop!
Such a joy to be able to share in these visits Ben. What a beautiful church. Thank you so much for filling these spaces with your playing. I grew up listening to the Milton organ played in Tewkesbury Abbey and later had the privilege of hearing Herbert Sumsion and John Sanders play in Gloucester Cathedral. There is a transcendent quality to organ music in sacred places such as St Peters. ❤
Was für eine Freude ihre Videos anzuschauen! Welche Begeisterung für diese alten schönen Kurchen u die Musik! Das ist einfach ansteckend! Diese Kirchlein sind echte "Kleinode", die von Ben hier entdeckt werden! Mit ihm würde ich eine Orgeltour in England machen! Danke Ben!
As usual, a fascinating tour of church, yard, and organ. As others have commented, it is great to be able to have these virtual journeys with you through the British landscape. It has been fifty years since I last wandered the Wiltshire and Somerset countryside as you do. Back then it was kind of a genealogical tour- in the 17th century my family came to America from the area around Frome- but we know not our immigrant ancestor. I visited the church of St. George at Whatley, but it was locked up tight and we could only walk the churchyard. I understand it has a very old historic organ... maybe you can visit that some day!
Thank you Ben, for another beautiful video. I love playing the piano and harpsichord, but for a profound spiritual experience there is nothing like sitting down at a pipe organ in a sacred space. When the light streams through the stained glass windows and you touch those keys it feels like a little taste of heaven. Sounds corny, but Sullivan’s Lost Chord comes to mind.
The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended. A thousand years in a mediaeval church is a day in Ben’s life. As a former churchwarden, I know the value of mighty hymns. Another hymn CD from the Bishop’s Boy would surely be welcome, possibly called Almighty Hymns at St Martin’s, hopefully to include Lo! he comes with clouds descending.
Greetings from Australia. A wonderful video, as are all, but this one featuring "The Day thou Gavest....", my mother's favourite hymn, and played at er funeral.
Pure escapism ! I love watching your videos on a Sunday night. They are getting better and better every week. It's cool to enjoy organ music these days, with a trio of brilliant young Organists, i.e. Anna Lapwood, Jonathan Scott and Ben ! I'm loving it........
Another marvelous presentation, Ben. Thank you especially for the Bach piece as it was one of my late mom's favorites and I think of her when hearing it. You're blessed to come from an area of such long history and I was just wondering how far back you can trace your family heritage to that area? That might be a great subject for a future video...? Again, thanks and be well.
Dear Ben- God bless you for braving the flooding and the bitterest cold weather to bring so much joy to those of us who look forward to your shows each week. Thank you first of all for playing my forever favorite song Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring! The beautiful countryside (even in January) of your Wiltshire took my breath away. However, your “hat hair” brought a good laugh and you really have the greatest broadcast, please don’t ever stop! Have a wonderful week and I can’t wait to see the treasure you find for us next week!
Thank you for showing and playing the organ. And thank you for giving us a tour of England that would not otherwise be available. This somehow reminds me of the fictional church “Fenchurch St. Paul” in the Dorothy Sayers novel, The Nine Tailors. There was a flood in the novel too! (Well, it was in the Fenlands. )
Always inspiring and educational. Great viewing here in the United States on Sunday mornings. One note: in the U.S., Anglican churches have great coffee. It’s true. Other denominations including Episcopal generally serve “church coffee 😡.”
Great to share in this atmospheric church of Saint Peters and the grace to pathe the way through fields and bogged land that defines the vision of church life curled in the winter bindings of bare tree branches and yet the sunshine creeping it's way to sleep to close the warmth of the day with thanks to you Ben the joy of playing the hymns of time gone by.Majestic grace to say the least..Thankyou for the time to share the beauty of English bliss in the artful praises of music. Hope you treated yourself to a coffee and cake. Look forward to the next episode of an old English Church.
What you have done for an heart worn American is what I needed to keep going. The Lord bless you in all your endeavors sir. Your servant ,Mr. Branscombe...(the original spelling of my name before being changed after immigration to America.)
Sorry not to see the Gorilla cart with you! Here in Northamptonshire the lanes to several village churches in the Nene valley are underwater. The royal church of Fotheringhay also has an organ by Vincent Woodstock which is used by the summer school for young organists. The low sun and crisp air in January has many compensations, clear blue skies, a golden light before sunset to illuminated the ancient yew trees which mark out God’s Acre and the subtle tones of the lichens on the ancient gravestones. The narrow and lofty nave is a sure sign of a Saxon building underneath medieval dress and Victorian restoration! This morning I took a communion service at Stilton, where the famous chess was sold but not made! In the same group is Elton, where an 18/19th century Rector was the father of John Fisher, Archdeacon of Berkshire and brother of John Fisher, Bishop of Salisbury. Without these two Johns, Constable’s world famous paintings of Salisbury cathedral would never have been painted. I suspect they might have been as holy as the founder of your school, but the younger John was a great comfort to the artist when his beloved wife died. Elton with its water meadows and mills, stone cottages and Hall has a church your would enjoy, William Morris glass, a T C Lewis organ and where Fr Faber was rector before he ‘poped’ in 1845. Among other hymns he wrote, There is a wideness in God’s mercy. As always a beautiful and sensitive post. I have sent the link to local village clergy and the Archdemon, and reported the growth of your worldwide following! Carry on the good work!
I hope you found some place warm with dry socks and a hot drink after wading in cold water and playing in a very cold, historic Church. Lovely first hymn. Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring was stirring.
There is a wonderful zen like calm to your voice, description and videos. I watch them and share them before bed. My brother’s cousin is a 28 year old organist now of growing noteriety. You have been shared with her and beyond here in New England. All agree you are a wonderful CZcams find. All the best and Thank you sir
Your playing of “The Day Thou Gavest”…one can almost see the field workers joining in at the end of their long day. Thank you for braving the cold, Ben, to share this historic parish church in Britford.
Thank you, Ben, for such a wonderful tour of that beautiful church and organ . The beautiful pastoral setting with the open fields has a flavor of New England where I live in Norwich, Connecticut. Thank you for demonstrating these beautiful organs that I probably otherwise wouldn’t get to see or hear. You’re a blessing! Thanks, Royden Wilkinson
Just come across this by accident - I can’t stop watching so relaxing to watch the landscape and of course the lovely sound produced of Ben playing the different pipe organs
I came across Ben’s channel one evening and I spent the rest of the evening listening to his music. He has a definite talent for presenting both his love of the organ and the history of the old churches. I have been trying to watch all his videos but I get started and find that I enjoyed them all so much I keep watching the new ones over again. I didn’t know anything about organ music. I didn’t even know I liked it until I watched him. I just love the way he explains all about the church and all the details of the organ that he is going to play. For me, it makes it so fascinating. I never get bored with it. I’ve set a reminder for for your channel. It’s the only one I’ve done that for. I want to be sure not to miss a new video as soon as you have it finished and ready to go. 😊
Like a lot of kids growing up in the 60s, I hated my greens, Brussel sprouts in particular. Also, I didn't really have access to this type of music as my tastes mainly centred on popular music of the time. But as I've become older my 'repertoire' has increased and now I'm avid Brussel sprouts fan (other greens are available) and likewise my taste in music. I am especially fond of what I call church music, e.g. Bach et al, and have now renamed it as my Brussels Sprouts music! Thanks Ben. 😁👍🙋
Love these videos. The organ music the church venues & doses of history that go with them. I was a choirboy many many years ago in Woodley, where we had a manually pumped organ which I occasionally provided behind the screen, watching the weight on a string disappear as the wind did it’s job. Great memories and your videos have a broad appeal to me. I did RAF service at Boscombe Down at Amesbury during conscription so I have a connection with the area 2:49 you operate in😊 David Radcliffe. 😊
I shouldn't say this, lest your humility be challenged: "You're a British National Treasure, appreciated internationally". Thanks for enriching our lives with your tours and musical presentations!
What a great Story Teller you are- and even better Organist! Really enjoyed this Episode. Stay Warm. Minus 7 here Toronto, Canada. This would be a beautiful place to visit in the Spring.
My grandfather was rector at Britford for many years, and my grandmother was the organist. They are buried in the churchyard close to Bishop Wordsworth. I cannot thank you enough for this. Donation on the way, I promise, but I’m late for church….😂
Ben, these are such awesome presentations of organs, music, history, poetry, architecture, insight and your gifted ability to bring it all together, episode after episode. I love every moment of every presentation.
Marvellous, Ben - you and your videos are just total gems! This is such a beautifully rural and idyllic part of the English landscape - thank you so much for bringing these wonderful pictures and sounds to us in our homes! Your videos re-awaken childhood memories of when, as a small child, I would sit next to my highly musical, but hugely modest grandfather (a DMus and FRCO) while he practised the organ at the church where he was organist for over 30 years, St Michael and All Angels, Tettenhall, Staffordshire. I remember it was an instrument with about a half-second delay because the console was on the opposite side of the church to the pipes - which made playing it during church services rather interesting! But what a joy it was to watch him playing, and what a joy it is to see and hear the beautiful music you too produce as another brilliant organist. Thank you!
Hi Ben, John here from across the pond, over in the US. I so enjoy your videos! Your style of taking me along on another of your adventures is so niice! It's like two friends with shared interrests spending time toghether, and I have to say, after watching a number of your videos, it's almost as though you are a friend! You're a kindred spirit Ben. God bless you.
I appreciate the musical silence between the intro & when he sits down at the organ. Creates a nice space to take in the sounds of the countryside & place he's in before the music gets going.
Ben, your videos are the best! This one especially resonated with me since St Clement is my favorite hymn melody. I’m originally from the UK, and have visited many of the churches you feature. Looking forward to future videos. Thank you so much!
Am I the only one to be mesmerized when I watch a new Ben's episode? 😊
He’s a natural because it’s all about the buildings and the music not about Ben - do rare but what a wonderful guy he is
Absolutely not! Entrancing and mesmerising and so very special.
Non, moi aussi!
Nooooo! You're not alone!! I'm here in Tasmania, Australia and totally riveted.
Give him a tv show ....History.. Church. Organs ..What more?
I enjoy your sense of humor regarding the 'lost glove' and your brother's adventure 'stupid fool' and your quiet laugh to yourself recalling the memory of your brother.
He's a naughty boy calling his brother a fool. (Is that the brother who sometimes helps and also plays the guitar?)
I look forward to these videos all week..
Me too !!
Me too ..
Superb...
Too short sadly
Me too. Thank you, Ben.
Ben, just really have started to enjoy these wonderful videos over the past few months and i just wanted to say thank you for allowing us to appreciate these beautiful instruments and scenes with you. There are so many people that truly appreciate what you do. Thanks!
Amen to that!😊
I love these videos. My old priest and I would fantasize about visiting lovely village churches in England. He is dead now and I pretend that I am watching these videos with him.
Wading through floods to play in one of Englands stolen churches.
Love it, can listen every night. Keep it up, most gifted one! Jerrie
Ben - you are a precious gem among men.
Well done Ben on staying enthusiastic, cheerful and determined on such a cold day.
Your determination has cheered everybody else up.
Beautiful! You walk through the flood so we don’t have to. Thank you!
What a great way to spend a very cold and snowy Sunday afternoon, 1 degree F, -17 degree C! Your introduction with the story of your brother is priceless! When you said, "Stupid fool" I laughed out loud. What a great deal of work, walking through the water and the field to bring us this great music. I've watched every episode, most several times and what's so special about your CZcams channel is that you make the video about the church, its setting and the organ . My dream would be to cross the Big Pond someday and hear you in person. Thanks Ben!
I beat you in the temperate department. We have had two weeks of between -18 in the day and -38 at night. Mine is the only car still operating!
It this video of Ben trudging through the flooded lane has brightened my mood like it always does.
Thanks again Ben. I appreciate your camera angles. In summer months I’m a bit is a lone church cruiser myself and charmed by the clunk clink and squeak of church doors as they open. I sit and tune myself in to all the emotions that have reverberated into the stonework. I think of the hopes, fears, great joys and outrageous pain and sorrows that congregations have brought into these buildings. Your choice of music and playing enables it to be tolerable.
Perfectly expressed. I, too, imagine all the people who were there before me. It makes my own woes more bearable.
Thank you for the travelogue, the music, and the organ primer.
Lovely, as ever. Thank you Ben, and all the very best for 2024 🎉🎵 🎵 🎉
I could “Walk” with you all day. Such beautiful scenery, thanks for sharing with us!
Thank you Ben , you're doing a grand job . Love your adventures.
Oh, to be in England ….in January..!! Thank you, Ben for trekking through the flood to bring us to St Peter’s. And thank you for one of my favorite hymns It lifts my spirits today. as we are locked in a deep freeze-down here iin the NW of WA State. “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring . Holy Wisdom Love Most Bright. Drawn by Thee Our Souls Aspiring. Soar to Uncreated Light . Word of God Our Flesh that Fashioned. With the Fire of Life Impassioned. Striving Still to Truth Unknown. Soaring, Dying “Round Thy Throne! ..
Here in Washington state too. My daughter is an organist so I get organ videos occasionally. His is the only one I watch. He is a great player and a good soul.
Wading through floods to play in one of Englands stolen churches.
My late mother’s favourite hymn (and one of mine too). Wonderful, thank you.
Ben, thanks so much for persevering through the cold and other difficulties to bring us the amazing views and delightful sounds!! Love the organ music and the birdsong, too!! In this day and age both are healing!
The churches, the villages, the countryside... just so beautiful! Thank you Ben
Outstanding! The countryside, the church, the organ, the music and, of course, the playing. Thank you, Ben, for another beautiful treat. Wishing you a good and prosperous year. 🥰🤠
I just found your channel a few months ago, and I really love your videos!
Every Sunday evening, I'm eager to see a new episode.
Thank you so much for making these videos! I know it takes a lot of time and effort, but it's highly appreciated!!
Saying hi from the Netherlands 🤗
Here's a bit of extra information about Britford and the Church.
Just along the river is Longford Castle, so private and out of view that even some people round here don't know about it. Still in the ownership of the Earl of Radnor, there are quite a few tombs of the family in the Churchyard. And of course with such patrons, the church is well looked after. Just thought I'd point out, especially to US viewers, that many of the Churches Ben is visiting have or did have, large wealthy estates nearby. Hence the quality of the buildings and their size and decoration.
Bit of trivia for you.
You can catch a glimpse of the roofs and towers of Radnor Castle from nearby hills, and only in winter when the trees are bare. However the best view of this unusual hexagonal castle is at the end of the film "The Princess Diaries" (Anne Hathaway film). It's the one shown in the ariel shot at the end of the film.
Wading through floods to play in one of Englands stolen churches.
As an American viewer and a lover of the Princess Diaries films, I greatly appreciate this comment!! 🤩🤩🤩 Thanks for sharing!
@@lindseyochoa4818 Thanks very much. Yes, the theft of churches, destruction of monasteries, and the murder and persecution of Englands population for holding to the Catholic faith is certainly a national disgrace which England has ignored too long.
Thank you for this interesting information.
@@DD-bx8rbPersecution of Protestants under Mary I (1553-1558)
The number of people executed for their faith during the persecutions is thought to be at least 287, including 56 women. Thirty others died in prison.
Thank you again for such wonderful work of presenting not only beautiful music, but so much more. I was never particularly a fan of organ music until I've heard you play in these churches bringing a modern reminder of ancient worshipers, and uniting us with those of old.
What a beautiful treat to watch these in this bleak midwinter! I’m surprised that there isn’t some effort to stabilize the temperature and humidity for these organs as extensive damage is possible otherwise. Thanks for another wonderful and calming adventure into a world few of us get to experience!
Once again, thank you! The Bach piece is a favorite and you certainly did him proud. I think that you are a genius in the way you have composed, presented and performed in these calming and informative videos. All the Best!!
I agree about Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring. And he played it at a joyful tempo unlike some renditions that are too slow and somber.
Bach composed it as a cantata to be performed at Sunday morning service as he was the Music Director and had to compose cantatas every week for Sunday services.
Ben another sublime and beautiful video. Your observations and quips in line with your love of these churches and the music comes through. You make me proud to be a local but even if I wasn’t I’d love these videos. Ben is truly the antidote to modern life. Thank you 🙏
I'm currently thousands of miles away from being a local, but I am totally captivated by your commentary, personal reflections, and, of course, your playing. Please don't stop!
Yes, I too would love to meet up with you on a trip to the UK, and just follow along! Just magical!
Hello Ben. I am sure the Bishop is smiling down on you today. As are the other souls gathered in the church to admire your playing.
Such a joy to be able to share in these visits Ben. What a beautiful church. Thank you so much for filling these spaces with your playing. I grew up listening to the Milton organ played in Tewkesbury Abbey and later had the privilege of hearing Herbert Sumsion and John Sanders play in Gloucester Cathedral. There is a transcendent quality to organ music in sacred places such as St Peters. ❤
Was für eine Freude ihre Videos anzuschauen! Welche Begeisterung für diese alten schönen Kurchen u die Musik! Das ist einfach ansteckend! Diese Kirchlein sind echte "Kleinode", die von Ben hier entdeckt werden! Mit ihm würde ich eine Orgeltour in England machen! Danke Ben!
As usual, a fascinating tour of church, yard, and organ. As others have commented, it is great to be able to have these virtual journeys with you through the British landscape. It has been fifty years since I last wandered the Wiltshire and Somerset countryside as you do. Back then it was kind of a genealogical tour- in the 17th century my family came to America from the area around Frome- but we know not our immigrant ancestor. I visited the church of St. George at Whatley, but it was locked up tight and we could only walk the churchyard. I understand it has a very old historic organ... maybe you can visit that some day!
Thank you Ben, for another beautiful video. I love playing the piano and harpsichord, but for a profound spiritual experience there is nothing like sitting down at a pipe organ in a sacred space. When the light streams through the stained glass windows and you touch those keys it feels like a little taste of heaven. Sounds corny, but Sullivan’s Lost Chord comes to mind.
The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended. A thousand years in a mediaeval church is a day in Ben’s life. As a former churchwarden, I know the value of mighty hymns. Another hymn CD from the Bishop’s Boy would surely be welcome, possibly called Almighty Hymns at St Martin’s, hopefully to include Lo! he comes with clouds descending.
Greetings from Australia. A wonderful video, as are all, but this one featuring "The Day thou Gavest....", my mother's favourite hymn, and played at er funeral.
Thank you for showing us……I enjoy your episodes (and commentary)
Pure escapism !
I love watching your videos on a Sunday night. They are getting better and better every week.
It's cool to enjoy organ music these days, with a trio of brilliant young Organists, i.e. Anna Lapwood, Jonathan Scott and Ben !
I'm loving it........
Another marvelous presentation, Ben. Thank you especially for the Bach piece as it was one of my late mom's favorites and I think of her when hearing it. You're blessed to come from an area of such long history and I was just wondering how far back you can trace your family heritage to that area? That might be a great subject for a future video...? Again, thanks and be well.
Dear Ben- God bless you for braving the flooding and the bitterest cold weather to bring so much joy to those of us who look forward to your shows each week. Thank you first of all for playing my forever favorite song Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring! The beautiful countryside (even in January) of your Wiltshire took my breath away. However, your “hat hair” brought a good laugh and you really have the greatest broadcast, please don’t ever stop! Have a wonderful week and I can’t wait to see the treasure you find for us next week!
Thank you for showing and playing the organ. And thank you for giving us a tour of England that would not otherwise be available.
This somehow reminds me of the fictional church “Fenchurch St. Paul” in the Dorothy Sayers novel, The Nine Tailors. There was a flood in the novel too! (Well, it was in the Fenlands. )
Always inspiring and educational. Great viewing here in the United States on Sunday mornings. One note: in the U.S., Anglican churches have great coffee. It’s true. Other denominations including Episcopal generally serve “church coffee 😡.”
@RichardJayJr-vz8ev
Oh dear
Oh dear
What have you done 😮
You have ignited "the great Church coffee war of 2024"
Hint: stick to British Tea 😂😂
Ah Ben, every episode with you is delightful ... every
note a prayer. Jesu joy... with your choices, ❤ made me smile with JSB
Great to share in this atmospheric church of Saint Peters and the grace to pathe the way through fields and bogged land that defines the vision of church life curled in the winter bindings of bare tree branches and yet the sunshine creeping it's way to sleep to close the warmth of the day with thanks to you Ben the joy of playing the hymns of time gone by.Majestic grace to say the least..Thankyou for the time to share the beauty of English bliss in the artful praises of music.
Hope you treated yourself to a coffee and cake.
Look forward to the next episode of an old English Church.
❤❤❤
Very thought provoking and uplifting. I'd love to see you venture north of the Plain...we have some fabulous churches too.
Beautiful. Thank You Ben.
I'm trapped inside after 20" of snowfall. Couldn't ask for better company. Beautiful music as always. And the hat hair only adds to your charm ;)
What you have done for an heart worn American is what I needed to keep going. The Lord bless you in all your endeavors sir. Your servant ,Mr. Branscombe...(the original spelling of my name before being changed after immigration to America.)
That "an" right before "heart" made me choke up. Our English language can do that sometimes, suddenly and for no reason, no explanation.
Thanks Ben, we enjoy exploring Wiltshire with you from the other side of the pond!
I have donated, too (not that Ben would outwardly wish for such appreciation). Hope more people would do the same, at least to pay for his petrol.
Another great visit with lovely music. I love being in England again (from Oregon). Thank you for getting cold for us!
No I do love it when Ben plays the different organs I just 😊 love his playing may he continue for a long time bless you Ben 👵🏻
Sorry not to see the Gorilla cart with you! Here in Northamptonshire the lanes to several village churches in the Nene valley are underwater. The royal church of Fotheringhay also has an organ by Vincent Woodstock which is used by the summer school for young organists. The low sun and crisp air in January has many compensations, clear blue skies, a golden light before sunset to illuminated the ancient yew trees which mark out God’s Acre and the subtle tones of the lichens on the ancient gravestones. The narrow and lofty nave is a sure sign of a Saxon building underneath medieval dress and Victorian restoration! This morning I took a communion service at Stilton, where the famous chess was sold but not made! In the same group is Elton, where an 18/19th century Rector was the father of John Fisher, Archdeacon of Berkshire and brother of John Fisher, Bishop of Salisbury. Without these two Johns, Constable’s world famous paintings of Salisbury cathedral would never have been painted. I suspect they might have been as holy as the founder of your school, but the younger John was a great comfort to the artist when his beloved wife died. Elton with its water meadows and mills, stone cottages and Hall has a church your would enjoy, William Morris glass, a T C Lewis organ and where Fr Faber was rector before he ‘poped’ in 1845. Among other hymns he wrote, There is a wideness in God’s mercy. As always a beautiful and sensitive post. I have sent the link to local village clergy and the Archdemon, and reported the growth of your worldwide following! Carry on the good work!
I hope you found some place warm with dry socks and a hot drink after wading in cold water and playing in a very cold, historic Church. Lovely first hymn. Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring was stirring.
There is a wonderful zen like calm to your voice, description and videos. I watch them and share them before bed.
My brother’s cousin is a 28 year old organist now of growing noteriety. You have been shared with her and beyond here in New England. All agree you are a wonderful CZcams find. All the best and Thank you sir
Just love the walks thru old cemeteries,and I mean old,here in America old means maybe 400yrs
More like 200!
Your playing of “The Day Thou Gavest”…one can almost see the field workers joining in at the end of their long day. Thank you for braving the cold, Ben, to share this historic parish church in Britford.
Thank you, Ben, for such a wonderful tour of that beautiful church and organ . The beautiful pastoral setting with the open fields has a flavor of New England where I live in Norwich, Connecticut. Thank you for demonstrating these beautiful organs that I probably otherwise wouldn’t get to see or hear. You’re a blessing! Thanks, Royden Wilkinson
I love to watch these escapades! Mesmerizing, yes.
Thanks!
Another lovely video. Many thanks
I'm delighted to have found you. God bless.
Just come across this by accident - I can’t stop watching so relaxing to watch the landscape and of course the lovely sound produced of Ben playing the different pipe organs
I came across Ben’s channel one evening and I spent the rest of the evening listening to his music. He has a definite talent for presenting both his love of the organ and the history of the old churches. I have been trying to watch all his videos but I get started and find that I enjoyed them all so much I keep watching the new ones over again.
I didn’t know anything about organ music. I didn’t even know I liked it until I watched him. I just love the way he explains all about the church and all the details of the organ that he is going to play. For me, it makes it so fascinating. I never get bored with it.
I’ve set a reminder for for your channel. It’s the only one I’ve done that for. I want to be sure not to miss a new video as soon as you have it finished and ready to go. 😊
Like a lot of kids growing up in the 60s, I hated my greens, Brussel sprouts in particular. Also, I didn't really have access to this type of music as my tastes mainly centred on popular music of the time. But as I've become older my 'repertoire' has increased and now I'm avid Brussel sprouts fan (other greens are available) and likewise my taste in music. I am especially fond of what I call church music, e.g. Bach et al, and have now renamed it as my Brussels Sprouts music! Thanks Ben. 😁👍🙋
I’m really enjoying Ben’s playing, and descriptions. I can quite see why he loves the tracker organ he talks about so eloquently
Hello. I follow your videos in the south of Brazil. Grateful for all this depth in every word, scene and musical note.
Thank you for wading through floodwater to bring us this video! I especially loved the Bach.
This guy is a pretty good organist, and also a very funny guy.
I love a hymn in 3/4. Triple time !
I’m having a blast watching you wander. You have inspired me to plan a vacation in your neighborhood in the fall.
Jesu, Joy is one of my favorite pieces! Thank you for this wonderful video under trying circumstances. Hello, from Brownsville, Texas, USA
Love these videos. The organ music the church venues & doses of history that go with them. I was a choirboy many many years ago in Woodley, where we had a manually pumped organ which I occasionally provided behind the screen, watching the weight on a string disappear as the wind did it’s job. Great memories and your videos have a broad appeal to me. I did RAF service at Boscombe Down at Amesbury during conscription so I have a connection with the area 2:49 you operate in😊 David Radcliffe. 😊
St. Clement is such a fitting tune in that setting.
Imagine a Vespers Service in that space, singing that tune. How lovely.
These vlogs are just getting better and better.
How uplifting.Thank you Ben.
Always delighted to find another of your videos!
We could listen to you for hours. Your video presentations are incredibly soothing.
I love this page...it's a kind of Oasis for me..thank you Ben..God bless.
That was just so lovely ❤, thank you!
Brilliant. Love your humor. (Humour).
I shouldn't say this, lest your humility be challenged: "You're a British National Treasure, appreciated internationally". Thanks for enriching our lives with your tours and musical presentations!
What a great Story Teller you are- and even better Organist! Really enjoyed this Episode. Stay Warm. Minus 7 here Toronto, Canada. This would be a beautiful place to visit in the Spring.
What a talented your men and so personable.
Wonderful! From: an equally cold fan in Tennessee....fortunately, we're getting a deluge of snow instead of rain. Made my day!
Wading through floods to play in one of Englands stolen churches.
Hahaha! Good on you for the glove, Ben! And of course your wonderful playing! Hope you were nearly warm! 👍🙏🙋
Beautiful church and organ - how lucky you are to be living and working in the midst of such treasures.
Love your trips & beautiful playing !!
Love any Bach on organ, thank you...
Thanks, please revisit this place on a more pleasant day. Thanks for your humor. Laughter is a grand gift to share.
Magnificent view!
My grandfather was rector at Britford for many years, and my grandmother was the organist. They are buried in the churchyard close to Bishop Wordsworth.
I cannot thank you enough for this.
Donation on the way, I promise, but I’m late for church….😂
Thank you!
Wonderful, thank you Ben!
Ben, these are such awesome presentations of organs, music, history, poetry, architecture, insight and your gifted ability to bring it all together, episode after episode. I love every moment of every presentation.
Another A +++ video!!! To top it off you played one of my favorite Bach pieces. We even had it playing at our wedding in South Carolina! ❤!
Another wonderful video. Beautiful landscape (my sympathies to the flood folks), lovely church, gorgeous music. Thank you, Ben.
Hi Ben: You are amazing. Thanks MUCH for your videos.
Marvellous, Ben - you and your videos are just total gems! This is such a beautifully rural and idyllic part of the English landscape - thank you so much for bringing these wonderful pictures and sounds to us in our homes!
Your videos re-awaken childhood memories of when, as a small child, I would sit next to my highly musical, but hugely modest grandfather (a DMus and FRCO) while he practised the organ at the church where he was organist for over 30 years, St Michael and All Angels, Tettenhall, Staffordshire. I remember it was an instrument with about a half-second delay because the console was on the opposite side of the church to the pipes - which made playing it during church services rather interesting! But what a joy it was to watch him playing, and what a joy it is to see and hear the beautiful music you too produce as another brilliant organist. Thank you!
Hi Ben, John here from across the pond, over in the US. I so enjoy your videos! Your style of taking me along on another of your adventures is so niice! It's like two friends with shared interrests spending time toghether, and I have to say, after watching a number of your videos, it's almost as though you are a friend! You're a kindred spirit Ben. God bless you.
No you aren't alone who like this program i love a story behind the music
There is just one thing to say fantastic thank you
I have said previously that Ben need his own TV slot What a gift.
God bless you Ben 🙏
Make a joyful noise onto the Lord!
I wish we had some of those glorious ancient churches with pipe organs in America.
Another great video Ben. Thanks!! Good Lord, I have the exact same jacket. 😂 It keeps me warm on a cold day. Today was -4° F (-20°C)
solch eine Hingabe des Menschen, diese wunderbaren Instrumente der Anbetung zu bauen.
I appreciate the musical silence between the intro & when he sits down at the organ. Creates a nice space to take in the sounds of the countryside & place he's in before the music gets going.
Ben, your videos are the best! This one especially resonated with me since St Clement is my favorite hymn melody. I’m originally from the UK, and have visited many of the churches you feature. Looking forward to future videos. Thank you so much!