Emma Whitten performs on the re-envisioned and restored Hazel Wright Organ in Christ Cathedral’s fresh acoustical space. “Every time I play The Hazel Wright Organ, I discover something new - it is truly a joy to play! I’m thrilled that the music on this recording showcases the entire instrument, from exquisite solo colors to the breathtaking power of full organ.”

Emma Whitten is an accomplished organist specializing in early Baroque and contemporary repertoire. Dr. Whitten serves as Associate Organist at Christ Cathedral (formerly Crystal Cathedral) in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange County, California. As Associate Organist, Emma plays for major liturgies at the Cathedral and accompanies the Diocesan Choir. Emma also acts as Music Coordinator at the historic Church of the Immaculate Conception in San Diego, and maintains a private teaching studio in Oceanside, California. Emma holds degrees in organ performance from the University of Notre Dame (2009), University of Kansas (2011), and Arizona State University (2014), where she received her D.M.A. studying with Kimberly Marshall.

La Serenissima explore the sacred works of Vivaldi, many of which were composed for the Ospedale della Pietài – a Venetian institution that cared for unwanted children, which included a talented group of performers (the figlie di coro). The album includes several firsts, including a new recording of a 'lost' Concerto that has recently been credited to Vivaldi, and performances on a newly built Violin in Tromba Marina - an instrument thought unique to the Ospedale which Vivaldi composed for. La Serenissima is recognized as the UK’s leading exponent of the music of 18th-century Venice and connected composers. Uniquely, the group’s entire repertoire is edited from source material, and it has been praised for its ‘glorious and all-too-rare ability to make one’s pulse race afresh with every new project’ (Gramophone). La Serenissima has become synonymous with virtuosity, dynamism and accessibility, uncovering a plethora of new repertoire and making it available to all through live performance, high calibre recording work, education and outreach initiatives.

REVIEW

During his time at the Ospedale della Pietà, a Venetian institution that cared for disadvantaged children, Vivaldi wrote vocal works for the local orchestra and choir, as well as many concertos. From this oeuvre, la Serenissima’s CD presents a mixed selection. It convinces with ambitious, historically informed interpretations. Appropriate tempi, good soloists, and a conductor who knows how to keep a wonderful balance between rhythmic conciseness and sung-out melodies leave a more than positive impression. The violin concertos captivate with their interpretive coherence and rousing drive. Particularly noteworthy is the rather rarely heard violin concerto with organ and strings RV 541. Just as in instrumental music, Chandler uses all the tonal possibilities in sacred music to support the soloists with the orchestra. Jess Dandy’s darkly glowing alto is particularly impressive. The recording technique is exceptionally brilliant, a plus not to be neglected.

-- Pizzicato (Remy Franck)

Few pipe organs in history have received as much attention as the iconic “Hazel.” David Ball’s performance takes full advantage of this “King of Instruments’” potential. “It is always an honor to sit in front of Hazel’s console and play,” said David Ball, Cathedral Organist and Head of Music Ministry. “I am continuously in awe of the sheer power and breadth of this amazing instrument.” Juilliard-trained organist David L. Ball serves as Cathedral Organist and Head of Music Ministry at Christ Cathedral in the Diocese of Orange, California (formerly Crystal Cathedral).

David is a recognized and well-lauded performer—The New York Times declared his appearance in Juilliard’s FOCUS! Festival “a rousing performance.” David completed both the Bachelor and Master of Music at The Juilliard School in New York City, studying under Mr. Paul Jacobs. As Christ Cathedral Organist, David’s musical contributions underpin the Cathedral’s vast array of weekly services and events, accompanying the Diocesan, Cathedral, and Children’s Choirs and supporting the parish’s diverse congregation.

Discover all of Hazel's story in this dynamic documentary release! The iconic Hazel Wright Organ of Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, is the world’s most widely heard pipe organ and the fifth largest. First built in 1982 and heard worldwide by millions on the Rev. Robert Schuller’s “Hour of Power” broadcast from the former Crystal Cathedral, Hazel now enjoys a renewed musical life following her full restoration in 2022 by the Diocese of Orange. Hazel is an icon of the musical world with a unique history. This is her story.