Bleedin' hell! That recital by David Briggs was fantastic. Wish I'd known about it so I could have attended, especially as I live within 30 minute's drive of the Cathedral.
The Widor and Bach were both hellfire with the organ being used to its fullest. God, I love the sound of that instrument. Such a unique blend of continental spikiness and mellow English Romantic foundations. Brings me to tears whenever I attend recitals there.
I have to say, the organ sounded in fine fettle on the broadcast. I couldn't hear anything more than some minor tuning issues. But of course, that doesn't mean the work isn't required. Hope they bring back the sizzle to the solo reeds when they restore it.
A thought on securing the future of these instruments - they should let ordinary morons like me have a play. I asked several years ago after a concert if I could have a dabble in return for a donation to the Cathedral and the response was somewhat frosty, as it often is with churches in my experience. I don't know why they are so insular and protective over their assets. Let people experience the sheer power and joy of these magnificent instruments. So what if they play the theme music from Super Mario Bros. 1 on full Tutti? If you lock the things away then don't expect younger generations to put their hands in their pockets in years to come.
As I've said many times, the organ is the original heavy metal. Let people pay to play and see for themselves.